Business Details
Faith-Based Preschool in Lawrence, KS
At The Giving Tree Preschool, we are dedicated to providing a high-quality, faith-based learning environment where children thrive. With over 45 years of service to the Lawrence community, our approach emphasizes meeting each child at their developmental level through a holistic curriculum. Our experienced team focuses on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth, ensuring a strong foundation for future academic success. We prioritize individualized learning styles and foster inclusivity, welcoming families from all backgrounds.Our staff combines decades of professional expertise with a passion for early childhood education, creating a nurturing space where children flourish. Located in downtown Lawrence, we blend innovative teaching methods with a commitment to community values. By integrating faith-based principles with evidence-based practices, we prepare children for school readiness while cultivating a lifelong love of learning. Our mission is to support every child's unique potential in a joyful, supportive environment.
Services
Preschool Programs
Faith-Based Curriculum
Developmental Assessments
Parent Workshops
Summer Enrichment
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of experience in early childhood education
- Our staff uses individualized learning approaches for each child
- We integrate faith-based values with developmental best practices
- Our team includes degreed educators with specialized training
- We maintain a strong commitment to community inclusivity
Services
Preschool Programs
Our preschool programs provide age-appropriate curricula focusing on social, emotional, and academic development. Through play-based learning and structured activities, children build foundational skills while exploring their faith. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from experienced educators.
Faith-Based Curriculum
Our faith-based curriculum integrates Christian values with early learning standards. Daily activities incorporate biblical teachings through stories, songs, and character development lessons while maintaining educational excellence and developmental appropriateness for young children.
Developmental Assessments
We conduct regular developmental assessments tracking children's progress across key domains. Our educators use observation-based evaluations to tailor instruction and provide parents with detailed feedback about their child's growth and learning milestones throughout the school year.
People
Julie Hafenstine
Director
With 20+ years in early childhood education, Julie holds an Elementary Education degree from Washburn University. She has led The Giving Tree since 2016, combining professional expertise with family values to create a nurturing learning environment.
Mikayla Swart
Lead Teacher
Mikayla brings extensive preschool teaching experience from New Mexico and Kansas. After raising her three children, she returned to education in 2015. Her practical parenting experience enhances her ability to connect with young learners and families.
Cathy Ison
Lead Teacher
With 17 years in early childhood education, Cathy combines volunteer experience with professional expertise. She specializes in tracking children's developmental milestones and has contributed to multiple students' academic foundations during her tenure at The Giving Tree.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We provide programs for children aged 3-5 years, focusing on developmentally appropriate practices for each specific age group within our preschool setting.
Are your teachers certified?
All lead teachers hold relevant degrees in education or related fields, with specialized training in early childhood development and classroom instruction.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain strict safety protocols including secure entry systems, regular drills, and health procedures. Our staff receives ongoing training in child safety, first aid, and emergency response.
Do you offer part-time programs?
We provide flexible scheduling options including full-time and part-time programs to accommodate different family needs and schedules.
