Frequently Asked Questions

What do families like most about Kirkland Children's School facility?
Our large campus is tailored for children and their families. Classrooms and playground areas are thoughtfully designed for kids of all ages. We provide big play toys for climbing and sliding and covered sandboxes that give children many choices for where to play and explore.

Our classrooms have a very open feel with appropriately sized furniture for each age group. Our sinks and bathrooms are built just for kids to make your child feel comfortable and capable in their school surroundings. Many parents comment on how clean and well-organized our classrooms are.

Parents also like our location with easy access to I-405 and Hwy 520; they can easily travel between school, work and home.

At what age can children enroll at Kirkland Children's School?
Children one year and older can attend full or part-time through kindergarten. Students enrolled in our kindergarten can continue in our before/after school program through age 10.
Are meals included in the tuition?
Yes. We serve nutritious food that children love. As a convenience for parents, we serve a cold cereal breakfast before 8:00 am and lunch, plus three snacks for full-day students. Part-time students receive lunch plus one snack.
What are your student/teacher ratios?
Our teacher-to-child ratio for one-year olds is 1 to 7; for toddlers the ratio is 1 to 6; for preschool children the ratio is 1 to 10; for kindergarten the ratio is 1 to 15; for before/after school the ratio is 1 to 15. We provide excellent care by having superior teachers, high-quality supplies, a first-rate facility, and professional support and supervision.
What about staff turnover?

The teachers who work with your children are our school’s most important asset. Our wages, benefits, and work environment are at the top of the childcare industry. We treat our teachers as professionals, and our turnover is low.

What do parents with children in public elementary schools say they like best about your before & after school care for K-5 students?

Parents also like the convenience of provided transportation to and from local public elementary schools. They like that Kirkland Children’s School is open even on days the public schools are closed and, ultimately, they like how our outstanding program prepares their children to excel in future educational settings. 

Which elementary schools do the children in your before/after school program attend?

Lakeview Elementary and Peter Kirk Elementary.

Do I need an appointment to visit my child at the school?

No. Our school observes an open door policy. Parents are welcome to observe the school and their child whenever they wish; just check with us to make sure you don’t disrupt nap time! 

How do you determine snow day schedules?

Our school rarely closes due to snow. We work hard to stay open. In case of inclement weather, check online for school closure information.  We will also text and email parents. 

Do you close for vacations or school training days?

The only days we close are New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King’s birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving,  and the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas. 

What’s your discipline policy?

Our teachers guide classroom interactions so that each child learns the value of cooperation and gains skills to solve conflicts in a positive manner. We use our best professional judgment when implementing supervision and correction. We stress positive reinforcement and redirection. We will discuss negative or disruptive behavior that persists with the parents and develop a joint plan of action. Corporal punishment is not used.  

How do I prepare my child for the first day of school?

Try to visit with your child before their first day. Point out activities, toys or games that you as a parent know your child will find especially appealing. Ask for your child to be introduced to the teacher. Before your child’s first day, tell your child you will be leaving and that the teacher will take care of him or her while you are away. Let your child know that you look forward to hearing about what they did and the fun they had while they were at school.

How do you recommend a parent leave their child at school?

Children do best with a predictable routine. Bring your child into the classroom and say hello to the teacher. The teacher will give you and your child a friendly greeting. If you have time it can be helpful to help your child get settled in to an activity. Say goodbye and perhaps some special words of encouragement, wave and maybe blow a kiss and then go. Once you say goodbye do leave right away. Parting is usually made more difficult for the child if the parent leaves and then returns. If your child cries as you leave allow the teacher to provide comfort. When you get to your destination you can always call and find out how your child is doing.