Preschool
Four's Preschool (Sunny Scholars) is an exciting time for children as they work to develop abilities and independence that will help prepare them for Kindergarten and beyond. The Four's Pre-K program is for four-year-old's one year prior to starting kindergarten. Children must be age four on or before Sept. 1. The program is located at most elementary school sites and offers programming five days per week with morning and afternoon half-day options. Parents are responsible for their child's transportation to and from school.
Completion of Early Childhood Screening is required for all students in SoWashCo Schools Preschool program starting at age 3. To schedule an appointment call 651-425-6636 or schedule a screening date online. Be sure to mention your child is registering for the SoWashCo Schools Preschool program.
Your child cannot be placed in a class if they will be 4 years old by 9/1/24 and have not yet been screened.
Preschool tours
We invite you to learn more about our preschool program by attending a tour. A short presentation will be made about our preschool programs and preschool representatives will be available to help answer questions and provide take home information. Pre-registration is required. Please register or call 651-425-7160 for more information. Dates for the next school year will be posted in January 2025.
District Program Center, Cottage Grove
Liberty Ridge Site II, Woodbury
Contact
Kim Heiderscheid
Office Coordinator
651-425-7160
kheiders@sowashco.org
Program manager
Registration Information
- Online Registration
- How to Register
- Selecting Classes and Required Documents
- Tuition and Registration Fee
- Financial Assistance
- Class Confirmation
- Age Requirements
- Early Childhood Screening Requirement
- Transportation
- Safe Practice Protocols/Expectations for Drop Off and Pick Up
- Toilet Skills
- Highly Qualified Staff
- Curriculum and Assessment
- Preschool Sample Daily Schedule
- Cancellation and Refund Information
- Early Learning Enrollment Contacts
Online Registration
How to Register
Selecting Classes and Required Documents
Tuition and Registration Fee
Financial Assistance
Class Confirmation
Age Requirements
Early Childhood Screening Requirement
Transportation
Safe Practice Protocols/Expectations for Drop Off and Pick Up
Toilet Skills
Highly Qualified Staff
Curriculum and Assessment
Preschool Sample Daily Schedule
Cancellation and Refund Information
Early Learning Enrollment Contacts
Parent resources
- Drop-In Play Sessions
- Early Childhood Home Visits, Consultations, and Family Support
- ECFE Partnership Opportunities for Community-Based Early Learning Programs
- Courageous Parents - Resilient Kids Program Series
- Help Me Grow
- Help Me Connect
Drop-In Play Sessions
Early Childhood Home Visits, Consultations, and Family Support
ECFE Partnership Opportunities for Community-Based Early Learning Programs
Courageous Parents - Resilient Kids Program Series
Help Me Grow
Help Me Connect
Early learning blog
Along with the joy of becoming a parent comes a lot of questions about raising a child. It can be hard to find answers and information. Our Early Learning blog can provide the information you seek. Written by one of our own ECFE Licensed Parent Educators, each blog offers insight into child development, parenting strategies, and other important topics that can support parents during their parenting journey. View our extensive blog library of topics as well as our most recent post below:
When you're buying outdoor clothing for your children, get a set for yourself too! As parents, we’re often the first to want to head inside—whether it's due to weather, household chores, or something else. The book 15 Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to Get Out of the House and Connect With Your Kids provides inspiration for how and why to make time in nature a priority.
Starting is easy. Try simple activities, like watching your breath on a cool evening or having a backyard picnic. Start the habit now in October rather than January, especially in Minnesota!
The "wonder years" of childhood are filled with amazing moments, from first words to endless questions. During this time, your child grows rapidly—emotionally, physically, and mentally—discovering the world around them. It's a chance for you to slow down, share in their excitement, and build a strong bond. These early years offer plenty of opportunities for love, learning, and growth—not just for your child, but for you as well. Cherish the journey!
Recently, a mom shared a touching gift that brought my eyes to water and my thoughts to linger, a card from her graduating daughter that contained a simple yet profound statement, "When I grow up, I want to be like you." In addition to the gratitude and acknowledgement of all her parent’s love and support, it’s this sentiment that resonates deep within every mom and dad—a reflection of deep, profound love for their child, hope in goodness, the countless unseen sacrifices and unwavering connection that define parenthood. Sometimes the phrase, “cut the umbilical cord” is used in jest. The physical umbilical cord is easy to cut but that deep attachment cannot naturally be severed.
The essence of early childhood lies in building and strengthening the parent-child relationship. Research confirms that the foundation of this attachment is formed during infancy, a stage where the dance of love, responsiveness, and trust begins. The attachment relationship is not just a fleeting phase; it is a cornerstone that shapes a child’s future emotional and social well-being. By promptly responding to their needs, we convey a fundamental message—they are seen, heard, and valued. Through shared gazes and gentle touches, we build a foundation for a strong, emotionally intelligent adult.
View the preschool catalog or download a printable version.
Register for Preschool 2023-24 Preschool Information 2024-25 Preschool Catalog PDF