Twos Program
Our twos program emphasizes socialization among children while meeting the needs of the individual child. We strive to create a safe and warm environment where young children feel secure and are always treated with respect. Children are offered a wide range of developmentally appropriate toys and activities that encourages exploration. We help children with language development and communication skills. Art activities provide numerous sensory experiences, which enhance fine motor skills, creativity and intellectual growth. For gross motor skills, the playground features ride-on toys, climbing structures, play mats, balls and more. We present age-appropriate themes, such as Colors and Shapes, and build some of our activities around them. We also work on sharing and self-help skills- clean up, hand washing, snack time - which build independence and self-confidence.

Eligibility: Children must be 2 by August 31st  to enter the program. We further divide 2 year olds into younger twos and older twos, narrowing the age range within each class. The younger twos must be 2 by August 31st ; the older ones must be 2 1/2 by February 28th.

Schedule: We find that continuity works best for this particular age group, so classes meet on consecutive days; morning and afternoon classes are available.

Staff: Each class of 10 children is staffed with three adults; two teachers (a head teacher and an assistant teacher) and a participating parent. We meet national adult/child ratio recommendations. In addition to a full-time Director, we have an Assistant Director at the Toddler Center and an Office Manager at MCNS.

Facility: Our 2s Program classroom is located in the education building of St. John's Lutheran Church . Our school is a tenant of the church and has no religious affiliation. The 2s Program has its own classroom. Free play takes place every day on a spacious playroom equipped with age appropriate playthings designed to enhance gross motor skills.                                                                                   

Developmental Issues:

Home Visits: Before the first day of school in September, you can opt for your child’s teacher to visit your child at home. We find this friendly visit eases the separation.

Separation: For most 2-year-olds, school will be their first regular activity away from home and parents. Almost everything will be “new”: the teacher, the children, the surroundings, the equipment, and the routines. All of the children will need the support and understanding of their parents, but some will need the physical presence of their parents longer than others. This is normal. We have years of experience helping parents and children separate for the first time. Know that you are encouraged to stay in the classroom at first, out in the hall as things progress for as long as it takes. Most parents stay in the building with their 2-year-olds for the shortened sessions at the beginning of the school year. Some parents will find that they need to keep coming for a few weeks. Be patient, separation will happen when your child is ready, and we will be there for you and your child every step of the way.

Toileting Concerns: We have no requirements when it comes to children in diapers. Children reach toilet readiness at their own pace, so some children will wear diapers; others won’t. Soiled diapers will be changed by a staff member adhering to health codes; children who use the toilet will be escorted to the bathroom as needed.

Snack: Snack time is an important part of our day both nutritionally and socially. Participating parents are responsible for bringing in a simple snack; our parent handbook provides guidelines. MCNS policy requires that all snacks be healthy; we also ban foods and food products that could cause life-threatening allergic reactions in our students.

Communication: We believe that communication between the teacher, the school, and your family is the key to a positive preschool experience. We offer two scheduled parent/teacher conferences each year as well as an open door policy should additional questions or concerns arise. Teachers send home regular activity plans to keep you informed as to what’s going on in the classroom. Periodically, the Director sends home letters and announcements via our convenient “school bag mail system.” Teachers, staff, and parents contribute to our school newsletter several times a year. We also provide you with a Parent Handbook that details our school policies.

Registration & Tuition:  Priority registration is given each year to those children who are currently attending MCNS Nursery School classes, to the siblings of Nursery School alumni, and to children of members of both the Mamaroneck United Methodist Church and St. John’s Lutheran Church . Remaining spots are offered to new students as space allows. No priority is given to those attending MCNS Playgroup or Kids’ Club Programs. We offer a 10 percent sibling discount (on the lesser tuition) when two or more family members are enrolled in Nursery School at the same time.