Alternatives to Preschool for 3 y.o. DD

[spookyblue]

My 3 year old DD just completed a summer program at a college-run preschool. She loves it there, but the the teacher mentioned that we would definitely want to try something less structured, especially since they didn't go outdoors that often in the winter (which is her favorite activity). DD is very energetic and loves playing with the other children, but has some trouble sitting still long enough for things like singalong and story time and unfortunately, the child to staff ratio is 3 kids per teacher and I can't expect them to chase her around all day. They just don't have enough teachers (or space) to handle a kid who wants to run around all the time, so I'm looking for some other options around the North Shore; Lynn, if possible. My main goal for my daughter is that she gets to play with other chidren and that I can drop her off for a few hours so that I can pick up an extra shift or two at work.

If anyone knows of a good home daycare provider or a more free-range preschool, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!

[kayleesmom]

what about joining the ymca or something. and having her do the abc class or messy play class?

[jessjgh1]

Is there a Waldorf near you?    I can think of programs that people do around here, but they are very individual. Also, check out farms or nature centers--- homeschoolers may have some programs they like for their younger children that might be what you are looking for.

Hope you find something!
Jessica

[chekhovgirl]

3 year olds should have problems sitting still ;)  Preschools don't give kids nearly as much unstructured outside play time as they need (I dream of  opening an outdoor preschool!).  I searched around and I just can't find something that you are looking for specifically in your area.  Is there a nature center around that has preschool programs?  We have a nature center on the south shore that has a preschool in it.  My son goes to a Montessori school and they don't spend a ton of time outside, but they do go outside every day unless there is an extreme circumstance.  I could count on my two hands the number of times they didn't go outside.  However, I have friends whose children stayed inside at preschool all winter, so I think it's just depends on the program.  I'd take a look at some local preschools and check out what their daily schedule is like, how much free play/outside time it involves and what their policy is on weather an outdoor play.  Good luck!

[chekhovgirl]

Hope you can find something like this!

http://www.massaudubon.org/PDF/sanctuaries/arcadia/Arcadia_Nature_Preschool_brochure2010.pdf

[spookyblue]

Thanks for the responses, everyone! I'm looking into classes at the YMCA and I couldn't have been more pleased. No 20 minute circle times, 2 hours of running around a day, more play options...This is exactly what my daughter needs, so I'll see how it goes :)