We strive to develop in each child positive self-esteem, curiosity, and a true joy in learning at a pace where they feel comfortable and safe! The goal of North Cross Early Childhood Program is to provide the first step toward the development of a positive attitude toward learning and prepare your child for Kindergarten by concentrating on their educational needs. We believe in exposing children t
o all areas of development (social, emotional, physical and intellectual) so that they may be better prepared for their elementary school experience. We provide children with the opportunity to learn about their environment, get along with and respect the rights of others, accept responsibility, develop a positive self-image, develop confidence in new situations, and handle emotions in acceptable ways. Children are encouraged to learn to help themselves and practice good health habits, develop large and small muscle coordination, develop language, solve problems, and express originality. North Cross Early Childhood Program is committed to development of the "total child". Our philosophy is that each child has a unique personality and will be treated as a special individual. The small teacher/student ratio allows that personalized treatment. Our purpose is to serve families in our church and community, offering them a comfortable atmosphere for their child's growth and natural learning experiences. North Cross ECP offers classes for two age groups of children 3 through 5 years. Our student population, with full enrollment, is approximately 80 children. Our staff consists of 4 lead teachers, 2-4 teacher assistants, a music & movement teacher, and a director. We offer:
1. Missouri Pre-K Standards: We meet and exceed all MO Pre-K standards that the state has issued for children to be ready for Kindergarten.
2. Music & Movement: Children attend music at least twice a week. The music teacher prepares a Christmas program and a Spring program that all children participate in. Age-appropriate gross motor activities are included in each class.
3. Pictures: Individual pictures are offered twice a year.
4. Field Trips: We believe that field trips and special events expand our students' horizons. We schedule field trips and special on-site events several times a year.
5. Conferences: Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled each year.
6. Drop-off/Pick-up: We provide parents with a drop-off and pick-up system through a car line to assist in a smooth arrival and dismissal.
7. Holiday Parties: Each holiday we celebrate with classroom parties. Parents are encouraged to come and join the fun.
8. Christian Concepts: Our program wishes to enrich the lives of our learners by offering weekly devotions and prayer time before snack and lunch. We also attend a weekly chapel time lead by our Children's Ministry Director, using Orange Curriculum.
9. Outdoor Play: Outdoor play is an important aspect of social development. We have a fenced play area with age-appropriate equipment for the children
North Cross Early Childhood Program is an outreach ministry of the North Cross United Methodist Church. The Early Childhood Program is a non-profit program dependent on all parents for financial solvency. Since North Cross Early Childhood Program is operated by a religious organization and falls under the exempt status of Subdivision 5 of Section 210.211 RSMo, it is not licensed by the Missouri Department of Health. This facility is inspected for fire, health, and sanitation requirements.