FAQ

What is a cooperative preschool?

A cooperative preschool is one that is owned and run by its members. Members form its board of directors and make important decisions about how the preschool is run. Participation of the preschool's members is vital to the operation of the school. If interested, families will be assigned to a role within the board of directors. Families can also participate by assisting with laundry, garbage and recycling, fundraising or volunteering in the classroom.

What are your hours?

Our preschool class is for ages 2.5-5 years and runs from 9:00-2:30 on Monday-Thursday.
Our toddler class, for children aged 18 months to 2.5 years runs from 9:00-12 on Friday.

Flexible enrollment

• Can my child attend only 2-3 days per week: 
  

You can choose to register for our 4 day or 2-day preschool program, with available options of Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday. We cannot accommodate requests for 3-day per week attendance.

• Can my toddler attend the preschool class?
  

Children must be preschool aged to attend the preschool class (2.5 years or older).  Children registered in the toddler class can move up to the preschool group when they are old enough and if a space is available. Children already registered have priority for spaces.

• Can my child stay for only a portion of the day?
  

Yes, you are welcome to pick up your child early on any given day. Please speak to the supervisor to arrange an alternate schedule.

How many teachers are in the class?

The Ministry of Education requires a ratio for teachers to children to be 1:8 for preschoolers and 1:5 for toddlers. We are always in compliance with Ministry of Education requirements. Other adults are often present in the room to support the children.  This includes volunteers, students, and additional educators with specific roles.

differences between board and general membership?

Lakeshore is a co-operative nursery school, where families will hold either board or general membership.
If you wish to hold general membership, you will be required to attend two general meetings (in the fall and spring). You are also invited to participate in family events, fundraisers, and to contribute in ways that require less time.  
If you wish to hold board membership, you will volunteer in one of eight roles.  You will attend monthly board meetings in the evenings and complete regular tasks specific to your job description, in addition to attending the two general meetings. 
The tuition rates differ between board and general membership. To view the fees in detail, please visit: https://www.lakeshorenursery.com/fees.html

Do you accept subsidy?

Yes, we accept subsidy.  If you need financial help with the program costs, please visit the link below for more information. There’s a calculator to help determine eligibility and info regarding how to apply for the subsidy if you are eligible.
https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/help-paying-for-child-care.aspx

Is toilet training required before enrolling my toddler in this program?

Your child does not need to be toilet-trained. We understand that it’s a process and will support families in their potty training efforts. Our teachers work to the best of their ability to help carry over your training efforts while your child is at preschool. Proper changing facilities are available.

Will parents be allowed to stay with their child during the first few days to help them adjust to the school?

Parents are encouraged to drop off their children for the program. Families will be offered the opportunity to visit the classroom outside of program hours with their child before they begin school. We also provide resources such as a social story about starting school. If you would like to help in the classroom, you have the opportunity to volunteer. There will be additional steps to arrange that.

What should my child bring for the program?

On the first day, please send: (a) Diapers and a small pack of wipes (if needed); (b) Extra set of clothing (including shirt, pants, socks and underwear) in case of accidents or messy play; (c) Pair of indoor shoes

Each day, please send: (a) a clean, full water bottle labelled with your child’s name ( water only please); (b) clothing for daily outdoor play (e.g. boots, rain coat, sun hat, extra pair of mittens). We play outdoors in all weather. 

Please DON'T send: (a) Snack food as this is provided by the preschool in both programs; (b) Lunch for the preschool program as this is provided by the preschool; (c) a backpack

What food is provided and can you accommodate special diets?

For the preschool class, a morning snack and a hot lunch will be provided.
For the toddler class, a morning snack will be provided.
We are a peanut/nut free facility. We can also accommodate other special diets for children with food allergies or dietary restrictions. Please notify us in advance to make arrangements for dietary accommodations.

Are there naps?

No, there is no designated nap time during the day however, the children are welcome to rest if needed. We offer a cozy space that includes a couch and cushions for them to relax. Families with a child who naps in the afternoon can make arrangements to pick their child up early.

Do the children play outside everyday?

Yes. With very few exceptions, the children will play outdoors daily. Outdoor play may be modified if needed (for example, a shorter period of time during very cold weather). They will not play outdoors during a thunderstorm. 

How should I dress my child for outdoor play?

Layers are important for outdoor play. In the Spring and Fall, a sweater or fleece under a waterproof jacket allows for layers to be removed as the temperature warms up.  Splash pants and rubber boots are also needed to stay dry. One piece “puddle jumpers” are also great if you have one.  In the Winter, a warm sweater or fleece under a winter coat, snow pants, warm socks, waterproof boots, a neck warmer and hat, and warm mittens are important. We recommend mittens (not gloves) as they are warmer and easier to put on.  Mittens MUST have thumbs (including for toddlers).

What is the policy if my child is sick? Are there any penalties for absence?

If your child is sick, we ask that you keep them at home to ensure the health and safety of other children and staff. There are no penalties for absence, but we do ask that you notify us by 8:30am.

Will I get reimbursed if my child is away on vacation?

No, there are no refunds for absences due to vacation.

What does a typical day look like for the children?

Our day typically starts with outdoor play.  When the children are ready, we come inside for a brief morning meeting, toileting, snack, and free play indoors. After lunch, we will have a storytime with songs and games and end the day with another opportunity to play outdoors.

Is there before and after school care?

No, there is no before or after school care provided.

What if I’m late for drop off or pick up?

Our drop off time is flexible and you can drop off after 9am as your schedule permits. Late pick ups cannot be accommodated and your child must be picked up by 2:30. If you are going to be late picking up your child due to an emergency, please call to notify the teachers. Late fees will apply.  

When will I be notified if my child is admitted? How long is your waitlist?

If applying during Spring registration, you will typically be notified within two business days of submitting your application. 
If on our OneList waitlist, you will be contacted as soon as a spot becomes available in accordance with your child’s position on the waitlist. Please note that the waitlist length varies and we recommend applying early.

Can I have a tour?

Yes, a virtual tour of our preschool can be found on the homepage of our website or on our classroom page. In this video, you can explore our classroom facilities and learn more about our program. Additionally, we host an open house in the spring, where you can visit in person, meet our teachers, and ask any questions you may have. All families that are considering registration are welcome to attend.