New Covenant Preschool began as a Mom’s Day Out program and three decades later, we are still at it. Though the name may have changed from Mom’s Day Out to Preschool, New Covenant Preschool has continued to offer half-day play opportunities, music, movement, and fun lessons that “focus on the foundation.”
Name Change to Pique Interest
We recently returned to calling our smaller preschool options “Mom’s Day Out,” with the hope of piquing interest from those families our school was designed for.
The flexibility of a half-day schedule benefits the homemaker, the work-from-home parent, or the grandparent who has taken on childcare duties. The program provides social and language skills for the children and a break for the parents.
Our Mom’s Day Out program, usually two to three days a week and lasting three to four hours a session, is a short program that provides the children with the opportunity to engage with others. Pretend play, sharing, and empathy are all learned by, and through, observation and imitation in a preschool classroom environment.
Less is More
We believe offering a one or two half-day program meets a critical need in our community. Shorter days offer a less stressful introduction to school, allowing children to adjust at their own pace.
The option of shorter days will prevent children from being overwhelmed with “big school” and the longer days of a school structure.
Are Mom’s Day Out Programs Being Phased Out?
We wonder with the trend of public school-run preschools replacing private preschools, are Mom’s Day Out programs being phased out?
We certainly hope not!
Our school, like many, faces ongoing challenges. The preschool “business model” is different from other industries.
Preschools cannot raise prices when the budget isn’t met. We must remain affordable and in line with the competition. We can’t just increase enrollment instead of raising prices, however, because preschools are limited to the state-mandated ratios—the classroom square footage determines the capacity.
The Money Disappeared
Many childcares have faced hardship recently; after years of being propped up by the American Rescue Plan, the grants ended last year. With extra government funding gone, the ability to offer short, affordable programs has disappeared for many childcare providers.
Not being sustainable, however, does not mean Mom’s Day Out programs are not vital.
Christian Preschool Must Continue
Because the option for half-day preschool is vital, Christian preschools must continue to provide these programs. Why do I target Christian schools with the task of saving small preschool programs? Because I believe you need a community that embraces fundraising, teachers with a serving heart, prayers for full enrollment, and faith.
So please pray for your local Mom’s Day Out program, give to the next fundraiser that crosses your path, and thank a preschool teacher for their dedication. Perhaps New Covenant Preschool and other Mom’s Day Out programs will continue for another decade.
Find Out More
Want to know more about New Covenant's Mom's Day Out program? We'd love to give you a tour and answer all your questions!
