At Celebree School of Nottingham, our preschool in Nottingham, MD, is where curiosity meets confidence. We see preschool as more than preparation for kindergarten. It’s a vibrant space where children discover how capable they really are. Every activity, from circle time to playground adventures, is designed to help them grow in independence, form meaningful friendships, and build the social-emotional skills they’ll carry for life.
Encouraging Independence, One Step at a Time
Independence doesn’t happen overnight. It’s nurtured in small, achievable steps. Our teachers guide children to try new tasks themselves, like:
- Putting on their own jackets before going outside
- Cleaning up toys after play
- Choosing activities during center time
- Serving themselves during snack time
These seemingly simple moments are powerful confidence boosters. Each “I did it!” fuels their sense of competence and readiness for bigger challenges ahead.
Building Social Skills Through Play
Play is where social skills flourish. Whether children are building towers, making up pretend stories, or figuring out who gets the red crayon next, they’re learning how to:
- Share and take turns
- Communicate clearly
- Solve conflicts respectfully
- Show empathy for others
Our classrooms are set up to encourage group activities while still honoring each child’s need for personal space. This balance helps children navigate social situations naturally and with growing self-awareness.
The Role of Routine in Confidence-Building
Children thrive when they know what to expect. Our daily schedules are consistent yet flexible, allowing children to anticipate transitions and understand their responsibilities. For example:
- Morning welcome sets the tone for the day
- Circle time invites participation and discussion
- Center time offers both structured and free-choice activities
- Outdoor play provides exercise and collaboration opportunities
When routines are predictable, children feel secure enough to explore, experiment, and take positive risks.
Teachers as Guides, Not Just Instructors
Our educators see themselves as facilitators of discovery. Rather than always giving direct answers, they encourage children to ask questions, think critically, and find their own solutions. That might mean:
- Asking, “What do you think will happen if we add more blocks to the tower?”
- Encouraging a child to ask a peer for help before stepping in
- Helping children reflect on choices and outcomes
This guidance teaches problem-solving skills that go far beyond preschool.
Connecting With Families
We know that a child’s growth is most successful when school and home work hand-in-hand. That’s why we share regular updates, photos, and progress notes with families. We also provide suggestions for at-home activities that reinforce what’s happening in the classroom, keeping children engaged and confident in all their environments.
Why Independence and Social Skills Matter for the Future
Strong social skills and a healthy sense of independence set the stage for success in school and beyond. Children who can express themselves, work cooperatively, and tackle challenges without giving up are better equipped for the more structured environment of elementary school and life in general.
We see this transformation every day: the shy child who becomes a leader in group projects, the hesitant painter who proudly shows off their artwork, the child who starts the year unsure about sharing but ends it comforting a friend.
A Preschool Experience That Grows With Your Child
At Celebree School of Nottingham, our preschool program meets children where they are and helps them grow at their own pace. Every milestone—big or small—is celebrated. We believe in giving children the tools to become independent thinkers, kind friends, and confident learners.
When your child is part of our preschool, you’ll see them come home with more than new facts or songs. They’ll carry a sense of pride, belonging, and readiness for whatever comes next.
