Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Early Childhood Education in Southbury, CT
At The Preschool Center, we believe early childhood is a time to be cherished, nurtured, and celebrated. For over 50 years, our dedicated team has partnered with families to create a foundation for lifelong learning through joyful, hands-on experiences. Our play-based curriculum fosters critical thinking, creativity, and social-emotional growth, guided by experienced educators who prioritize individualized attention in a secure, welcoming environment. Rooted in Connecticut Early Learning Standards, our program emphasizes music, art, nature exploration, and practical life skills while maintaining a low teacher-to-student ratio of 1:6.We cultivate open communication through Brightwheel updates and prioritize parent partnerships through classroom involvement and annual feedback. Recognized for preparing children for kindergarten success, our program combines structured learning with imaginative play in a state-licensed facility located within the United Church of Christ in Southbury.
Services
Preschool Programs
Play-Based Curriculum
Parent Partnerships
Outdoor Exploration
Artistic Activities
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of experience in early childhood education
- Our low 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio ensures personalized attention
- Curriculum aligns with Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards
- Brightwheel app enables real-time communication with families
- Proven track record preparing children for kindergarten success
Associations and certifications
- State of Connecticut Licensing Authority
What people say
Attentive and caring staff
Excellent job mixing learning
Best preschool for preparation
Thriving environment for growth
Phenomenal teachers
Services
Play-Based Curriculum
Our play-based curriculum nurtures natural curiosity through music, movement, creative expression, and nature exploration. Aligned with Connecticut Early Learning Standards, it develops early math, science, and literacy skills while fostering social-emotional growth. Daily activities include hands-on learning centers, outdoor discovery, and art projects that encourage problem-solving and self-expression.
Parent Partnerships
We prioritize family involvement through Brightwheel communication, classroom volunteering, and special events. Parents receive weekly updates with photos and classroom news, while teachers maintain open availability for individual conferences. Annual feedback sessions help shape our program, creating a collaborative community where families feel heard and valued.
Outdoor Exploration
Daily outdoor time includes secure playground access, nature walks, and gardening activities. Children observe plants and animals while developing gross motor skills through climbing, running, and imaginative play. Our nature-based curriculum promotes ecological awareness, sensory development, and physical coordination in a safe, stimulating environment.
Artistic Expression
Artistic activities include drawing, painting, sculpting, and crafting with diverse materials. Emphasis on process over product encourages creativity and self-expression while developing fine motor skills. Children explore color theory, texture, and form through open-ended projects that integrate with thematic learning units.
Practical Life Skills
Practical life curriculum teaches independence through pouring, sorting, and self-care activities. Children develop fine motor control and concentration while learning responsibility through environmental care tasks. These activities build confidence and prepare young learners for academic concepts through purposeful, hands-on experiences.
People
Kelly Fressola
Director
With over 20 years in early childhood education, Kelly leads our team in creating nurturing learning environments. She implements curriculum standards while maintaining open communication with families through regular email updates and Brightwheel integration.
Bryce Cipriano
4's Head Teacher
Bryce specializes in guiding preschoolers through imaginative play and structured learning. He creates engaging classroom environments that balance creativity with foundational skill development for four-year-old students.
Susan Burdick-Rushin
3's Head Teacher
Susan focuses on early childhood development for three-year-olds, designing age-appropriate activities that foster social skills and cognitive growth through play-based learning experiences.
Nicole Halzack
Art Enrichment
Nicole leads creative arts programming, developing projects that emphasize process over product. She guides children through diverse media exploration while nurturing self-expression and fine motor development.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 3-5 years old, with separate classrooms for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds.
Is potty training required?
Yes, children must be potty-trained before starting school to ensure comfort and independence in our program.
How do you communicate with parents?
We use the Brightwheel app for daily updates and photos, plus regular email communications from the director.
What curriculum do you follow?
Our play-based curriculum aligns with Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards for comprehensive early education.
Are there opportunities for parent involvement?
Yes, we welcome classroom volunteers, event helpers, and family participation in special activities throughout the year.
How do you prepare children for kindergarten?
Through structured learning centers, social-emotional development, and early literacy/math activities that build foundational academic skills.
