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The clipping this text was read from
The clipping this text was read from

are iortunate to have two programs in the village to meet the needs of families! You have read several times about Baby Bear in the past and now I introduce you to Leap Start Preschool, too.

Crystal Smith, a lifelong Sperryville resiCurrent!y

a Kindergarten teacher at kcjlo, is opening a new preschool in operryville. Opening a preschool in her community has always been her dream. Since her first son was born in September, Crystal feels this is a great time to make her dream come true. As a new mom, Crystal understands how much working parents worry when they have to leave their children in the care of another person. Her goal is to provide a safe, loving, nurturing, and educational preschool that will prepare children for kindergarten. She wants parents to have peace of mind when they entrust their children in the care of her preschool.

As an experienced kindergarten teacher, Crystal knows first hand that many children enter kindergarten unprepared for all the standards they must meet during their first year of school. She knows exactly which skills children need to acquire in preschool so they can be successful in kindergarten. The focus of her preschool will be on all aspects of kindergarten preparation. Children will develop fine & gross motor skills and early literacy and math skills. They will be introduced to basic science, social studies, and health concepts to prepare them for Kindergarten Standard of Learning tests (SOL’s). Another very important area of child development is peer socialization. Children at Leap Start will learn sharing, cooperative play, manners, classroom routines/rules, and some basic independence skills. Children will learn through cooperative play at centers, in whole group activities, and independent work. Initially Crystal will only be accepting a small group of children so that she can offer individualized education for varied abilities and ages. Parents will receive daily communication on how their child spent their day at preschool. Crystal is now accepting applications for children aged 3-5 years. She will offer both a full day program and a half day program (great for stay at home moms).

Crystal, who has a Virginia teaching license for Pre-k through 6th grades, graduated from RCHS in 1998 and James Madison University in 2002. Leap Start Preschool will be at her home in Sperryville at 11865 Lee Highway, just west of the fire hall. Interested parents can e-mail her at or call 987-9660.

Open house at Baby Bear

Daycare and Preschool

An open house is planned for June 17 from 2-4 p.m. at Baby Bear on Main Street in Sperryville. There will be free food, face painting, a jumping balloon and the unveiling of the new playground. You are invited to come by to visit and have some fun. Parents are welcome to view the preschool curriculum and ask any questions. '

Connie Reid wants all parents to know about a website that provides information and tips on keeping your children safe One great tip on the site is to Map our Neighborhood. Take a walk with your child through your own neighborhood and point out homes of trusted adults, as well as potential street hazards.

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