• Community: Our Preschool is a place where children, families, teachers, and members build lasting relationships. Children are welcomed daily with smiles, families form lifelong friendships, and alumni regularly return. With staff connected to The Connection for decades, our preschool lives its mission of building meaningful connections.
• Mixed Ages: Our mixed-age program encourages children to learn from one another. Older preschoolers model leadership and support younger peers, while younger children foster empathy and patience. Children are together for most of the day, with some age-based small groups for differentiated learning. Most children attend for two years, focusing first on routines and comfort, then on kindergarten readiness.
• Inclusion: We welcome children and families of all backgrounds and abilities. Our classroom and schedule support engagement and frequent transitions. For children receiving or referred for early intervention services, a planning meeting with families, teachers, and the child’s BCBA is required, noting classroom space limits for additional adults.
• Curriculum: Using NJ Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards, our project-based curriculum balances creativity and academics through play, exploration, and skill-building. Children develop self-regulation, problem-solving, creativity, cultural awareness, and a love of reading and learning in a joyful, collaborative environment. Focus areas include social-emotional development, literacy, motor skills, arts, science, math, culture, and community.
• Enrichment: One of the many wonderful things about The Connection Preschool program is that we have enrichment classes built into our preschool day! The enrichment classes are: Music and Movement, Swim Lessons, Yoga, Gymnastics, Science, and Jr. Warrior. All classes take place in the morning before 12:30pm dismissal. See Daily Schedule and Enrichment Classes for more information.

Registration for the 2026-2027 school year opens January 22 at 9:30am! 

Open Houses and Tours
Prospective families are invited to open houses in October-January each year. There are morning and evening options for open houses. Prospective families are also welcome to contact the Head Teacher at any time to schedule a tour during preschool hours throughout the school year.  We have rolling admissions welcoming families that move to the area midyear or just looking to join us at any point in the school year.

Open Houses are at 9:30am on 1/7, 1/15, 1/20, and at 6:30pm on 1/15. Families who register for and attend a January open house will receive a code for early registration. Email preschool@theconnectiononline.org to RSVP.

Enrollment Options:

• 8:45am-12:30pm or 8:45am-2:30pm
• Preschoolers may register to attend 3, 4, and 5 days per week.
• Children ages 3-5 are welcome to register for our half day program ending at 12:30pm. Children must be 4 years old to attend the full-day program until 2:30pm. If your child is 3 and you would like them to attend until 2:30pm, the teachers will let parents know when they feel the child is ready for the full-day option. In most cases, children are not ready for the full day until they are almost 4 years old as we do not offer a nap time.
• Flexible drop-in care is available for enrolled students.

PRESCHOOL BROCHURE

Financial Assistance
For Financial Assistance is available for Preschool! Click here for more information. 

ENROLL NOW

*Enrollment for 2026-2027 begins 1/22 at 9:30am

Click here for a sample schedule of a typical day for our preschoolers.

Our engaging classroom encourages preschoolers to be creative by imagining, designing, implementing, and improving on their own ideas while also collaborating with preschool friends.

• Learning Centers
  Daily opportunities to participate in developmentally-appropriate activities that help children learn new skills or practice existing skills in a fun, engaging, and supportive learning environment.
• Creative Arts
  Preschoolers explore their environment by moving, touching, and experimenting with different types of materials to express ideas.
• Imaginative Play
  Preschoolers role-play and engage with one another learning social skills and cultural awareness. They develop cooperation and negotiation skills while sharing their ideas and experiences within their play.
• Interactive Read Aloud
  Purposeful and planned story time encourages preschoolers to actively take part by asking and answering questions and making predictions.
• STEAM Activities
  Preschoolers are inspired to become problem solvers as they explore, investigate, make observations, and join in open-ended creative experiences in science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

Led by The Connection’s specialty program instructors (all are included in fees).

• Monday – Music & Movement
  Energetic and musical activities help children express themselves creatively.
• Tuesday – Swimming
  Children learn basic swim and water adjustment skills from trained instructors in small, level-appropriate classes. First Aid and CPR/AED Certified Lifeguards oversee swimmers to ensure the safety of all participants.
• Wednesday – Gym & Science (2 separate classes)
  Fun-filled tumbling activities that develop motor and coordination skills. Our staff members are USGA Safety Certified Gym Instructors. While science is incorporated into our daily learning, this enrichment class gives the children an opportunity for additional experiments and exploration.
• Thursday – Musical Theater & Yoga (2 separate classes)
  Children enjoy exploring the theater arts through games, stories and improvisation. Students will experience mindfulness, stretching and relaxation through yoga tailored to their age.
• Friday – Junior Warrior
  Specialized warrior challenge activities to help develop strength, balance and confidence
  

Our program loves when families are active in our community. Being involved in your child’s school experience is important and valuable but we also understand families are very busy. In August, parents receive a link to our Family Volunteer Signups. This signup remains open all school year. There are plenty of opportunities throughout the year to volunteer for activities and events. For families unable to volunteer at school, there are plenty of opportunities to assist in other ways such as donating to a holiday celebration, making playdough for the classroom, sending in special books, or sending in pictures of family activities for the children to share with the class. 

Some of our Volunteer Opportunities are…

• Family Events: We organize various social events throughout the year including the Art Show in May.
• Conferences held virtually in the Fall and Spring
• Field Trip Chaperones: In the past, we have visited Reeves Reed Arboretum, Briant Park in Springfield, Summit Fire Station, Summit Library, and Trailside Center in Mountainside.
• Birthday Celebrations
• Holiday Celebrations such as Halloween and the Winter Holiday Party
• Cultural Celebrations: In the past families have volunteered to celebrate Diwali, Hispanic Heritage Month, Holi, Chinese New Year, Passover, and more.  We love learning about cultures and traditions!

“Our daughter blossomed and thrived in her two years at Connection Preschool. The teachers are excellent and were fully invested in my child’s learning and happiness, and my daughter LOVES school and learning thanks to the warm and caring environment they have cultivated. We will miss our preschool family so much, but Nora is more than ready for kindergarten (thanks to The Connection). I could not recommend this school more enthusiastically.”

“For a little kid, I don’t think it is easy to start the school. Going somewhere new, being alone there with a group of strangers, without being with mommy and daddy and not knowing what is next. It was not easy for us/parents either. Our son is our first child. We made some research, asked some recommendations from the other moms we knew. Then before classes started, we, parents had a meeting with the teacher. We didn’t need 5 min, not even 3 min. to see we were in the right place with the right people. Ms Kathleen was so adorable, it was obvious that she “really” looooves with being kids and looooves what she is doing. It is not a job for her. It is a part of who she is. Kind, sweet, patient, experienced, has perfect balance between gentle and still have the authority on the kids. I would almost cry when I was listening to her. thought about how lucky the kids to have this experience with her then thinking other kids they never had a chance to meet her, some even have horrible memories somewhere else.

Ms Tatiana was also our son’s favorite person, so sweet, so gentle, so understanding, just perfect for little kids. Our son was talking about her a lot when he came home and shared a lot with her.

After that meeting, we felt better, stress went away. He got used to, enjoyed being there, learned a lot in many ways. He loves both Ms Kathleen and Ms Tatiana, misses them, asks once awhile if we can go and visit them. That experience also helped him to adjust to kindergarten easily and smoothly.

My advice is register as soon as it opens, you don’t want to miss it. We can’t wait our 2nd son to go to their class, He needs to grow up a little bit more :-)”

“The Connection Preschool is truly an outstanding program! Ms. Kathleen and Ms. Tatiana are incredibly caring, loving, and absolutely wonderful with the children. Their warmth and dedication create a nurturing environment where kids feel safe, happy, and excited to learn.

One of the standout features of this preschool is the variety of enriching activities it offers. The monthly “bus field trips” to Bryant Park are such a fun and engaging way for the children to explore and connect with the world around them. Additionally, the weekly “special” classes—ranging from swimming and ninja warrior to art, dance, and more—are unique and provide kids with opportunities to develop new skills and interests.

This program is thoughtfully designed, and it’s clear that the staff is passionate about fostering both academic and personal growth in the children. I highly recommend The Connection Preschool for any family looking for a well-rounded and loving educational experience for their little ones!” 

“Our experience with the Connection Pre-K class in the past 2 years was absolutely wonderful! The two teachers (Ms Tatiana and Mrs Kathleen) were nothing short of amazing. Their warmth, dedication, and creativity made the classroom an exciting and nurturing environment for the children.”

My son loved attending class every day, and it was clear that he felt happy and supported. The wide range of activities they planned kept him engaged and eager to learn. From arts and crafts, yoga, swimming to interactive storytimes and fun educational games, each activity was thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity and encourage development.

The teachers also fostered a sense of community among the kids, helping them build friendships and develop important social skills. It was heartwarming to see how much effort they put into making each child feel special and valued.

As a parent, I felt confident that my son was in great hands. I’m so grateful for the positive impact they had on his early learning experience and would highly recommend this Pre-K program to anyone!”

“Our daughter attended The Connection Preschool for two years, and it truly became a second home to her. She not only excelled academically but also grew socially, emotionally, and physically. The nurturing, patient, and loving environment provided her with a strong sense of security and encouragement, creating an ideal atmosphere for learning and development. The curriculum laid a solid foundation for her success in kindergarten, while further fueling her passion for learning. She enjoyed engaging, hands-on lessons that were interactive and fun. The specials The Connection offers creates an extremely well-rounded and unparalleled preschool experience. Our daughter learned to swim, practiced skills in gymnastics and yoga, and expressed herself through theater. The expertise of the staff — from the lead teacher and assistant teachers to the enrichment specialists — truly sets The Connection apart as an exceptional program in our community.”

“We moved to Summit at the end of the summer and The Connection Preschool program has been instrumental in our son’s transition to a new town and new school. He loves his school and all the friends he’s made there. I especially love that the kids have access to a huge gymnasium and pool through their program.”

“The Connection has been such an incredible experience for my three-year-old daughter.  She’s learning new things every day, excited to go to school every morning and has really thrived with her social skills ever since we started in September.  She loves her teachers and can’t wait to come home to tell me all about swimming, yoga and all of the activities she gets to do during the week.  The school is flexible for days when you need your kid to stay late or be picked up early which is a game changer, especially for working parents.  I could not recommend The Connection more and am so thankful for the experience they’ve provided our family!”

Frequently Asked Connection Preschool Questions

Contact: preschool@theconnectiononline.org

• What age are the preschoolers that attend The Connection Preschool program?
  Our Preschool is for ages 3, 4, and 5. (4’s turning 5 during our preschool year). We do not offer a kindergarten program at this time.
• How does the multi-age classroom work?
  We all learn from each other. Older preschoolers act as role models to younger preschoolers and provide support as younger students navigate our preschool day. Younger preschoolers help older preschoolers learn patience and empathy. There are times throughout the day such as specials and small group learning when the children are separated by age group.  This allows the teacher to differentiate learning activities for each child.  
• What is the ratio of students to staff?
  We follow a 1:8 ratio.
• Does my preschooler need to be potty trained to attend The Connection Preschool program?
  Yes, preschoolers need to be completely and comfortably potty trained. No pull-ups. They should be comfortable using a bathroom that is not their home bathroom. They should be able to use the bathroom independently (pulling down and up, unbuttoning clothing, and wiping)
• What if my preschooler has a “potty” accident?
  For “pee” potty accidents, we will encourage them to change clothing independently. For “poop” accidents, preschool staff will call a family member.
• Will my preschooler get to participate in enrichment classes?
  Yes, one of the many wonderful things about The Connection Preschool program is that we have enrichment classes built into our preschool day! The enrichment classes are: Music and Movement, Swim Lessons, Yoga, Gymnastics, and Jr. Warrior. All classes take place in the morning before 12:30pm dismissal. We do have a few extra bonus gym classes for preschoolers who stay until 2:30pm.
• How does swim class work?  What if my preschooler does not want to swim or I am uncomfortable with my preschooler attending swim class?
  The preschoolers have a set time to participate in swim class. They are taught in a small group by a swim instructor. A lifeguard is also present to monitor the class. Your preschooler will come to preschool on swim day dressed in their bathing suit and with a towel. We encourage the preschoolers to dress independently but preschool staff will assist if needed. Because we usually have a waitlist for swim class days, we request you select another weekday to attend preschool if your child will not swim. Preschoolers attending school on swim days must take the swim lesson as there are no alternate activities during those times.
• Who will be teaching my preschooler?
  Preschool is taught by a certified teacher with a degree in Early Childhood Education/ P3 endorsement. An assistant teacher will also be involved with the preschool learning day.
• What type of curriculum do you follow? Will my preschooler be ready for kindergarten?
  We balance a mix of creativity and academics. We have project based learning that encourages exploration and fun while also targeting skill-building.  We typically have preschoolers for two years. The first year (3 year olds) is all about learning that preschool is a fun place to be and how to navigate our preschool routine. The second year (4s turning 5) is all about building on kindergarten readiness skills.
• What is the drop-off and pick-up procedure?
  . Families will use a car line. Preschool staff will greet each preschooler in the morning at arrival in their vehicle. The preschooler will be escorted out of the vehicle to our meeting location. For dismissal, preschoolers will be brought out by a preschool staff member to their car.
• Does my preschooler need snack and lunch?
  Preschoolers attending 8:45-12:30 will need snack only.
  Preschoolers attending 8:45-2:30 will need snack and lunch.
  *Please no nuts of any kind*
• What should my preschooler bring to preschool each day?
  Your preschooler should bring a backpack that can accommodate their snack and/or lunch bag and a folder that will be provided by preschool staff. The backpack should also contain a change of clothing in a labeled zip-lock bag, the change of clothing will be left in the backpack. A compete set includes: underwear, pants, shirt, and socks.If your child is newly potty trained, we suggest a second change of clothing and a pair of sneakers to be left in the backpack as well for the few first weeks. 
• How will I know how my preschooler is doing?
  The teacher offers virtual conferences twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring.  The teacher is also available via email and happy to set up a time to chat throughout the year as needed.
• How will I know what my preschoolers is doing in preschool?
  Families will get a weekly email on Friday after school that will detail what we did for the week and any important dates. Families should always check their email. Included in the email will be a link to pictures of activities taken throughout the week.  
• Does The Connection Preschool follow the Summit Public Schools’ schedule for days off?
  Yes, for the most part we follow the Summit Public Schools’ schedule for days off or unscheduled school closings, with some exceptions. A preschool calendar will be included in your preschool enrollment packet or click here for our calendar!
• How do you handle discipline?
  We believe in positive discipline techniques and offer choices and reminders when needed. If a child needs a break we offer them a safe  space to take a break and then rejoin when they feel ready.
• What if my preschooler has separation anxiety?
  We encourage talking about school and making it a positive conversation “There are so many fun activities like… (choose an activity that your child enjoys story time, art, gym, learning letters)”.We also encourage reading books about school to your child and reinforcing, especially if this is their first time away from home, that grown-ups always come back at the end of the school day.