Business Details
Trusted Play-Based Preschool in New Canaan, CT
We are a close-knit community dedicated to nurturing young children through play, exploration, and meaningful connections. Established to provide a warm, inclusive environment for children aged 3-5, we prioritize individualized learning through a play-based curriculum that aligns with Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS). Our program emphasizes cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development through hands-on activities, small-group interactions, and discovery-based learning. With a team of experienced educators, we foster a joyful atmosphere where children feel safe, valued, and celebrated.Our curriculum includes language and literacy, creative arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, preparing students for kindergarten while maintaining a focus on kindness and community. Daily music, weekly science classes, and field trips to the New Canaan Nature Center enrich our offerings. Parents play a vital role in our school family, with open communication and collaborative relationships ensuring each child receives personalized support. Our director, Stacey Walker, leads with a commitment to creating a nurturing space where families form lasting friendships and children thrive.
Services
Threes Program
Fours Program
Pre-Kindergarten
Triple Play for 3s
Jumpstart for 4s
Lunch Bunch
Camp Programs
Highlights and features
- Our play-based curriculum aligns with Connecticut Early Learning Standards (CT ELDS)
- Experienced teachers prioritize individualized attention and social-emotional development
- Strong home-school partnerships foster personalized support for each child
- Weekly science classes and nature center field trips enhance learning
- Collaborative parent community creates lasting family connections
What people say
Strong community bonds
Experienced educators
Joyful learning atmosphere
Kindergarten-ready graduates
Personalized communication
Services
Threes Program
Our Threes Program focuses on foundational social-emotional development and creative exploration for 3-year-olds. Children engage in play-based learning through hands-on activities, small-group interactions, and sensory experiences that build motor skills and early communication abilities. Daily music, art projects, and introductory literacy/math concepts follow Connecticut state standards while maintaining a joyful, child-led atmosphere.
Fours Program
The Fours Program expands learning through structured play and skill-building activities for 4-year-olds. Our curriculum integrates language and literacy, mathematics, and science concepts using Wilson Fundations pre-K handwriting alignment with local schools. Weekly science classes and nature-based field trips to the New Canaan Nature Center provide real-world connections that prepare children for structured education.
Pre-Kindergarten
Our Pre-Kindergarten program bridges early learning with formal education requirements. Certified teachers implement a comprehensive curriculum covering all state-mandated developmental areas while emphasizing critical thinking, collaboration, and kindergarten readiness skills. Students participate in advanced creative arts, math concepts, and social studies explorations to ensure smooth transitions to elementary school environments.
Camp Programs
Camp Programs provide extended learning opportunities during school breaks with themed activities that blend play and skill reinforcement. Children enjoy nature exploration at adjacent facilities, creative projects, and social development opportunities while maintaining educational continuity. The camp environment maintains our core philosophy of joyful, child-centered learning through structured yet flexible programming.
Triple Play for 3s
Triple Play for 3s offers specialized enrichment sessions that enhance core learning through three key developmental areas: physical movement, creative expression, and social interaction. This program combines structured activities with free-play periods that reinforce motor skill development, imaginative thinking, and peer relationship-building in age-appropriate ways that complement regular classroom instruction.
People
Stacey Walker
Director
Stacey Walker leads FPNS with over 15 years of early childhood education experience. She creates nurturing environments where both students and families feel supported while maintaining curriculum excellence. Her leadership ensures consistent communication between staff and parents.
Questions
What ages does FPNS accept?
We enroll children aged 3, 4, and 5 years old regardless of church affiliation.
How does FPNS prepare children for kindergarten?
Our curriculum aligns with Connecticut Early Learning Standards and uses Wilson Fundations handwriting program to develop academic and social-emotional readiness skills.
Are field trips included in the program?
Yes, we offer regular trips to the New Canaan Nature Center to enhance science and nature learning.
How does FPNS involve parents?
We foster strong home-school partnerships through daily greetings, regular communication, and community-building events for families.
What happens during admissions?
Start with a personal tour for parent and child, followed by application submission and contract signing with a $500 registration fee.
Is there a waiting list?
Priority enrollment occurs in November for current students, siblings, and legacy families. Open enrollment begins December 1st for new applicants.
