FAQS
How do children learn through play at Sol Playschool?
At Sol, play is the primary way children explore ideas, build relationships, and make sense of the world. Through play, children experiment, create, solve problems, and express themselves in meaningful ways. Educators observe and support these experiences, allowing learning to grow naturally from children’s interests and curiosity.
Why is play considered the foundation of learning at Sol?
Play supports all areas of development, social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and creative. When children are deeply engaged in play, they are motivated, focused, and open to learning. Sol values play as the essential work of childhood and as the foundation for confidence, resilience, and lifelong learning.
What does “child-led” or “self-directed” learning mean?
Child-led learning means that children’s interests, questions, and ideas guide exploration and play. Children are encouraged to make choices, take initiative, and engage at their own pace. Educators remain present and attentive, offering support and materials that extend learning without controlling it.
How do educators support learning without a traditional curriculum?
Rather than following a fixed curriculum, educators use observation, reflection, and documentation to understand what children are exploring. Learning experiences emerge from these observations and are thoughtfully supported through materials, questions, and environments that invite deeper engagement.
How much time do children spend outdoors each day?
Children spend extended time outdoors every day, as outdoor play is an essential part of Sol playschool daily rhythm. Outdoor experiences adapt to the weather and seasons, and families are encouraged to provide weather-appropriate clothing so children can play comfortably in a variety of conditions.
Why does Sol playschool have two playgrounds?
Our outdoor spaces are intentionally designed to support different ages, interests, and types of play. Having two playgrounds allows children to engage in movement, exploration, and challenge in developmentally appropriate ways, while offering variety and space for different experiences.
How does spending time in nature support children’s development?
Our outdoor spaces are intentionally designed to support different ages, interests, and types of play. Having two playgrounds allows children to engage in movement, exploration, and challenge in developmentally appropriate ways, while offering variety and space for different experiences.
What is risky play, and why is it important for children?
Risky play involves challenge and manageable risk, such as climbing, balancing, or exploring uneven terrain. These experiences help children develop judgment, coordination, confidence, and resilience in developmentally appropriate ways.
How do educators balance safety and risk during play?
Educators closely observe children, assess environments, and provide attentive supervision. Safety is supported through thoughtful design and guidance while preserving meaningful challenge and exploration.
How are meals and snacks experienced at Sol Playschool?
Meals and snacks are a meaningful part of Sol’s educational proposal. Food is intentionally connected to the garden, cooking experiences, and shared family-style meals, supporting community, autonomy, and care.
For this reason, food from home is not permitted, except for documented medical needs. Meals follow a vegetarian, high-quality menu designed by Sol in collaboration with our consulting nutritionist, ensuring consistency, safety, and alignment with our values.
Are meals included in tuition?
Yes. Meals and snacks are included as part of the program. Families receive additional information about menus and dietary accommodations during enrollment.
How is the garden connected to daily meals and food experiences?
Garden experiences help children build a natural connection between outdoor exploration and the food they eat. Through hands-on experiences, food becomes familiar, meaningful, and part of everyday life at school.
How are food allergies and special dietary needs handled?
Sol Playschool works closely with families to support children with allergies or special dietary needs. Individual plans are created as needed, and clear procedures are followed to ensure safety during meals.
What is the appropriate clothing for children at Sol Playschool? Do you have uniforms or spirit wear?
Children should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows for movement, outdoor play, and exploration. We recommend neutral colors and clothing without bright graphics, characters, or shiny elements, as simpler clothing supports focus and imagination.
Children use comfortable indoor footwear while inside the school and weather-appropriate outdoor footwear for time outdoors.
Sol does not use traditional uniforms; instead, children wear comfortable Sol aprons that function as our uniform, especially during art, cooking, and garden experiences. Families receive a seasonal clothing guide and a list of required in-school items, shared prior to the start of the program, to support comfort and consistency throughout the year.
What is Sol’s approach to screen time?
Sol is a screen-free program. Learning and exploration are grounded in real-world experiences, relationships, movement, play, and connection to nature.
How does bilingual exposure benefit my child?
Exposure to more than one language supports communication skills, cognitive flexibility, and cultural awareness. At Sol, children experience English and Spanish naturally through daily interactions, routines, music, and play.
How are birthdays and special celebrations approached at Sol Playschool?
Birthdays are honored in simple, meaningful ways that center connection and community. Children participate in baking a small treat together at school, such as bread, a simple cake, or cupcakes, allowing the birthday child to feel celebrated within the group. Celebrations remain developmentally appropriate and focused on shared experience rather than parties or items brought from home.
Will my child be prepared for kindergarten after their experience at Sol Playschool?
Yes. At Sol, we believe that early childhood experiences form the foundation for all future learning and well-being. Research consistently shows that children who attend play-based, relationship-centered, and nature-connected programs develop stronger self-regulation, social competence, confidence, and intrinsic motivation,skills closely linked to long-term success in school and life.
Through play, exploration, collaboration, and meaningful relationships, children at Sol build curiosity, resilience, and a love of learning. These foundations support later academic skills such as reading, writing, scientific thinking, and problem-solving, while also contributing to emotional well-being and positive engagement with school.
How does Sol communicate with families?
Sol maintains open and ongoing communication with families through daily updates, shared observations, and regular dialogue. Brightwheel is used as the primary platform for communication.
How are families involved in the school community?
Families are valued as active partners at Sol. We encourage collaboration through open communication, family workshops, gatherings, and an open-door approach that welcomes dialogue and shared reflection.
Can I visit the school before enrolling?
Yes. Families are encouraged to schedule a visit to tour the space, meet educators, and learn more about Sol Playschool before enrolling.
Does Sol offer financial assistance or subsidies?
Sol participates in available financial assistance and subsidy programs, including Care 4 Kids, when applicable. Sibling discounts are also available. Families are encouraged to contact the school directly to discuss eligibility, options, and next steps.
Are children required to be fully vaccinated to attend Sol Playschool?
Yes. In accordance with state regulations, children are required to be fully vaccinated to attend Sol Playschool. Medical exemptions are accepted when properly documented, as permitted by regulation.