Admission Policies

First Circle of Friends policy is that children must be three by August 31st of the current school year to be eligible for enrollment in the three-year old class. Please note, in our experience, children born in May, June, July and August benefit greatly by delaying their start in school by an additional year, giving them time to gain valuable growth in emotional maturity, regardless of academic readiness. We have found this delay fosters strong self-esteem and positive leadership qualities that are carried throughout their academic career. The following guidelines will help you assess your child’s preschool readiness:

• If confronted with social challenges, can they handle this independently – e.g. without a parent?

• Do they have the verbal capacity to help solve this issue?

• Would they be able to complete a task without lots of prompting and help from the teacher?

• How independent are they in such things as toileting, dressing, and eating?

• Can they deal with a basic level of conflict?

• Are they able to separate without a great deal of stress?

• Will they be able to talk with and respond to a teacher?

• Can they follow simple instructions?

• Do they show some interest in peers?

• Can they take responsibility of their own possessions (homework folder, backpack)?

• Are they capable of transitional changes – e.g. stopping play and moving into next activity without difficulty?

Upon completion of the year, teachers will recommend placement for the following year.