How Long Should Preschoolers Be in School? Understanding What Young Children Really Need
Temple Beth Or Preschool • July 9, 2024
When it comes to early childhood education, parents ask a lot of great questions—one of the most common is:
“How many hours a day should my preschooler be in school?”
And it’s a really important one to ask.
At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we close at 4:00 p.m., and sometimes families wonder if that’s too early. The short answer? Not at all. In fact, we believe that 4:00 is the ideal end-of-day for young children—and here’s why.
Preschoolers Need Structure, Not Overload
Young children thrive on structure, predictability, and plenty of time to rest and reset. Their brains and bodies are working overtime every single day: managing emotions, learning to cooperate with peers, building new academic skills, and navigating a full sensory environment.
A full day at preschool—especially when it's packed with play, learning, music, movement, transitions, and social interaction—is a lot to process.
After about 6–7 hours of engaged learning and play, most preschoolers start to show signs of:
- Mental fatigue
- Emotional dysregulation (read: more meltdowns)
- Physical exhaustion
- Difficulty transitioning from school to home
More Time Isn’t Always Better
While longer hours may be necessary for some families' work schedules (and we deeply respect that!), what we often see in early childhood is that there’s a sweet spot for time spent at school—and going much beyond that can lead to diminishing returns for learning and behavior.
That’s why our teachers—who are trained in early childhood development and see this firsthand—believe that ending the day by 4:00 gives children:
- Time to decompress
- Space to reconnect with family
- Room for healthy sleep routines
- A chance to rest their brains and bodies before doing it all again tomorrow
It’s About Being Developmentally Appropriate
We design our entire school day to align with what children need most at each age. From the moment they arrive to the moment they leave, our classrooms are filled with play-based learning, emotional support, and routines that foster confidence, curiosity, and connection.
And by wrapping the day at 4:00, we’re honoring what’s developmentally appropriate—not just logistically convenient.
How to Support Your Child After School
Whether you pick up at 3:00 or right at closing, here are a few ways to support your child after a full day at preschool:
- Offer a calm environment with low stimulation and some quiet time
- Follow their lead—some kids want to talk about their day, others need space
- Stick to a predictable bedtime (yes, even if they say they’re not tired!)
- Know that tired = not “bad behavior”—they’re just spent, and that’s okay
At TBOP, Less Can Truly Be More
Our job as educators isn’t to fill every minute—it’s to make the minutes your child spends with us count. That means intentional, loving, play-filled learning days that leave children feeling connected, confident, and excited to come back tomorrow.
If you're wondering whether shorter hours mean your child will “miss out”—we’re here to reassure you: what they won’t miss out on is being respected, supported, and allowed to thrive at their own pace.
Want to see our school day in action? Schedule a tour and experience a day that’s just the right length for joyful, developmentally appropriate learning.
TBOP Voted Best Preschool/Early Education Program in Wake County! We’re honored (and just a little giddy) to share that Temple Beth Or Preschool has been voted Best Preschool/Early Education Program in Wake County by the readers of INDY Week! This recognition means the world—not just because we won, but because it was you, our community, who made it happen. You showed up with your votes. You shared our story with friends. You stood with us and supported the work we do every day in our classrooms. More than a win, this feels like a beautiful reflection of who we are together—a joyful, inclusive preschool community where children are celebrated, families feel supported, and learning happens with love. To our teachers: thank you for bringing your whole hearts to your work. To our families: thank you for trusting us with your little ones. To our broader community: thank you for helping TBOP continue to grow, shine, and welcome new families each year. Here’s to another year of hugs, laughter, learning, and lots of messy art projects. We’re so proud to be your preschool. With gratitude, The TBOP Team
Potty training. Just the phrase alone can bring up anxiety, questions, and more than a few stories from the parenting trenches. At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we believe that every child is on their own timeline—and that includes mastering the potty. We’ve heard from many families who’ve come to us from other programs frustrated, overwhelmed, or feeling like they’ve failed. Maybe their child was ready to start potty training, but their daycare didn’t allow support in the classroom. Or maybe their child wasn’t quite ready, but the school required them to be trained before enrollment. Either way, parents are often left feeling stuck. At TBOP, we take a different approach—one that honors where your child is, not where someone else says they should be. We Meet Kids Where They Are (Yes, Even in Pull-Ups) We know that potty training is a major milestone, and it doesn’t happen the same way—or on the same schedule—for every child. That’s why we: Welcome children in all stages of potty training —from pull-ups to fully trained Work with families to create a consistent plan across home and school Support commando kiddos (no pull-ups or underwear) with understanding and flexibility Celebrate small wins —from sitting on the potty to mastering the flush! If your child is showing interest at home, we’ll hop on the “potty train” and continue the routine here. If your child needs more time and reassurance, we’re right there with them. Our Philosophy: Respect, Patience, and Encouragement We don’t shame. We don’t pressure. And we definitely don’t expect toddlers to conform to a one-size-fits-all potty policy. Instead, we offer: Calm, consistent language Gentle reminders and visual cues Supportive teachers who know how to spot readiness signs A culture that understands accidents are part of learning—not something to fear Many families are surprised (and relieved!) to find that once the pressure is off, their child actually thrives in a supportive environment like TBOP. We’ve seen children go from nervous or resistant to proud and confident—just because someone believed in their timeline. You're Not Behind. You're Just on Your Child’s Timeline. Potty training is one of the first big lessons in parenting: we can guide, model, and support—but ultimately, our kids are in the driver’s seat. At TBOP, we’re here to be your copilots. Whether your child is just starting out or almost there, we’re ready to walk (or sprint!) this journey with you. Got potty training questions or concerns? Let’s talk. You’re not alone—and we’re here to help.
If you’re the parent of a preschooler, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “kindergarten readiness.” And chances are, you’ve also wondered: Is my child ready? What should they know? What if they’re not writing their name yet? Take a deep breath—you’re not alone. At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we believe in preparing children for kindergarten in a way that’s developmentally appropriate, joyful, and rooted in confidence—not pressure. What Kindergarten Readiness Does Mean Kindergarten readiness isn’t just about knowing letters and numbers (although we cover that too!). It’s about helping children grow in four key areas: Social-Emotional Development Can your child separate from caregivers with growing ease? Can they take turns, ask for help, and manage big feelings with support? These foundational skills often matter more than early academics when starting kindergarten. Self-Help Skills Things like zipping a backpack, cleaning up after snack, and using the bathroom independently help children feel confident in a classroom setting. Language & Communication Kindergarten teachers look for kids who can follow directions, express themselves clearly, and engage in conversations—not necessarily those who are reading early. Curiosity and Engagement A child who’s excited to explore, ask questions, and try new things is more than ready to learn—because learning is already happening. What Kindergarten Readiness Doesn’t Mean Being able to read or write fluently Memorizing long lists of facts Sitting still for long periods Being the most academically “advanced” in the class There’s no one-size-fits-all checklist—and there’s no rush. Children develop at their own pace, and readiness is about more than milestones. How TBOP Supports Readiness, the Right Way In our 4s classrooms (Tigers & Monkeys), we combine strong early academics with plenty of play, movement, and creativity. We use the Letterland literacy program (the same one used in Wake County Public Schools), introduce number sense, patterning, and simple graphing through games, and guide kids toward independence and problem-solving. We also focus heavily on emotional intelligence, community-building, and confidence. Kids take on classroom jobs, resolve conflicts with teacher support, and learn how to advocate for themselves and others—all through age-appropriate, hands-on experiences. When they leave TBOP, they’re not just ready for kindergarten. They’re ready to show up as curious, compassionate, and capable learners. Questions about your child’s transition to kindergarten? We’re always happy to chat—because readiness isn’t just about the child, it’s about helping families feel supported too.
When it comes to choosing a preschool, it’s easy to focus on the basics: location, curriculum, schedule. But one factor that often gets overlooked—and makes a major difference in your child’s experience—is class size . At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we keep our classes small for a reason. With two teachers in every classroom and intentionally low student-to-teacher ratios, we’re able to offer the kind of personal attention and connection that young children truly need to grow. Here’s why that matters: 1. More Individualized Attention Every child learns differently. Some jump right into circle time; others need a little encouragement. In a small class, teachers can truly get to know each child—their interests, their personality, their unique learning style—and adapt the day accordingly. This means: Teachers can spot and nurture each child’s strengths Kids who need a little extra help aren’t overlooked Children build meaningful bonds with the adults in their classroom 2. Stronger Relationships, Safer Spaces Preschool is often the first time a child spends extended time away from their family. Small classes make this transition easier by creating a warm, consistent, and emotionally safe environment. Children in smaller classrooms: Form deeper friendships with classmates Feel more seen and heard Are more likely to speak up, try new things, and participate It’s not just about physical safety—it’s about emotional safety, too. 3. Better Support for Social-Emotional Learning Learning how to share, cooperate, and solve problems is just as important as learning ABCs—and it takes practice. In a smaller group, teachers have more time to coach children through tricky moments instead of simply managing behavior. At TBOP, we use the Conscious Discipline model to help children name their feelings, practice empathy, and build conflict resolution skills. Small class sizes allow us to be present and patient in those critical moments of growth. 4. A Quieter, More Focused Environment Let’s be real: preschool can be loud! With fewer children in a classroom, the energy is still joyful and playful—but there’s more room for focus, calm, and creativity. Small class sizes allow: More uninterrupted play and deeper concentration Easier transitions between activities More opportunities for teachers to introduce meaningful learning moments throughout the day 5. More Confidence for Kindergarten With fewer peers, children have more chances to lead, take on classroom jobs, and develop independence. By the time they leave our NAEYC-accredited, 5-star Raleigh preschool , they’re not only academically prepared—they’re confident and emotionally ready for kindergarten. (Explore our blog: Kindergarten Readiness: What It Means ) The TBOP Difference We keep our classes small not because it’s easy—but because it’s worth it. At Temple Beth Or Preschool, our teachers aren’t just managing a room—they’re mentoring, listening, guiding, and connecting with every child, every day. When your child is in a classroom where they are truly known, everything else falls into place. Want to see what a small, joyful classroom looks like in action? Schedule a visit and come see why families call TBOP one of the top Raleigh preschools for early childhood education.
At Temple Beth Or Preschool, our goal isn’t just to help children learn letters and numbers—it’s to help them grow into kind, confident, resilient human beings. That’s why we use the Conscious Discipline approach throughout our classrooms. You may have heard your child mention “breathing like a star” or “taking a break to calm down,” but what does it all mean? Here’s a closer look at what Conscious Discipline is, and how it shapes the day-to-day experience at TBOP. What is Conscious Discipline? Conscious Discipline is a trauma-informed, evidence-based social-emotional learning program that helps children—and adults—build the skills needed to manage emotions, make thoughtful choices, and create a strong sense of community. It was developed by Dr. Becky Bailey and is used in thousands of schools across the country. At its heart, Conscious Discipline teaches that discipline is not something we do to children—it’s something we teach them. It shifts the focus from punishment and compliance to connection, emotional regulation, and problem-solving . What Does That Look Like in a Preschool Classroom? In a Conscious Discipline classroom, you’ll notice a few key things: Connection Before Correction: Teachers focus on building strong, trusting relationships with each child, knowing that connection is the foundation for learning and growth. Safe Spaces to Calm: Each classroom has a “Safe Place,” where children can go when they’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s not a punishment—it's a tool for self-regulation. Language That Empowers: Teachers use language that models empathy, helps children name their feelings, and guides them through challenges rather than controlling behavior with fear or rewards. Consistent Routines & Rituals: Visual schedules, greeting rituals, and classroom jobs give children structure and ownership of their day, helping them feel secure and included. Problem Solving Together: Instead of “time-outs,” teachers walk children through moments of conflict with empathy and reflection. This helps kids learn how to solve problems, not just that certain behaviors aren’t allowed. What Kind of Training Do TBOP Teachers Receive? Our teachers participate in ongoing professional development in Conscious Discipline , including workshops, in-school coaching, and team discussions. They learn not only how to guide children through big emotions, but also how to reflect on their own responses and bring calm, mindful leadership into the classroom. This training is grounded in neuroscience and child development research—and it supports everything from classroom management to lifelong relationship skills. Why It Matters for Your Child When your child is taught through the lens of Conscious Discipline, they’re learning more than how to take turns or say “I’m sorry.” They’re learning: How to recognize and manage their emotions How to handle conflict with empathy and respect How to feel safe, heard, and valued How to be part of a caring community At TBOP, we believe in nurturing the whole child. Conscious Discipline helps us do just that—guiding children with compassion, modeling respectful relationships, and planting the seeds for emotional resilience and inner confidence. Want to learn more or try Conscious Discipline strategies at home? Let us know—we love partnering with families on this journey.
Let’s be honest—parenting in today’s world isn’t easy. And choosing a preschool? It’s a big decision that brings up a lot of questions. Will my child feel safe? Will they be loved and understood? Will this school partner with us and truly care? At Temple Beth Or Preschool, these aren’t just questions we take seriously—they’re the heart of everything we do. More Than Just a Building We know that when families choose a preschool, they’re not just looking for a classroom. They’re looking for a safe, nurturing second home. That’s why at TBOP: Every teacher knows your child’s name—and your name too Our security protocols are in place and regularly reviewed Our school community is tight-knit, welcoming, and deeply connected We believe in making safety visible, communication open, and kindness the norm. Emotional Safety Matters, Too In addition to keeping children physically safe, we prioritize emotional safety—because that’s where real learning begins. Through our use of Conscious Discipline , our teachers help children name and regulate emotions, build trust, and navigate big feelings with compassion. We create space for every child to feel: Seen Heard Included Respected Our goal isn’t just to prepare children for kindergarten—it’s to help them build the confidence and emotional intelligence they’ll carry with them for life. Open to All, Rooted in Respect While we are proud to be a preschool rooted in Jewish values, the majority of our families are not affiliated with the temple , and we welcome children and families of all backgrounds. What connects us isn’t a shared background—it’s a shared belief in community, curiosity, and compassion. You’re Not Alone. We’re in This Together. We know how much trust it takes to choose a preschool. And we don’t take that trust lightly. We work every day to ensure our school is a place where your child can thrive—and where you, as a parent, can breathe a little easier. If you're looking for a preschool where safety, love, and learning go hand in hand, come visit Temple Beth Or Preschool. We’d love to welcome you. Schedule a tour or reach out with any questions. We’re here for you.
At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we’re proud to be accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) —the highest standard in early childhood education. But what does that really mean for your family? NAEYC Accreditation: A National Gold Standard NAEYC accreditation is more than a badge of honor. It’s a rigorous, research-based process that ensures a preschool meets comprehensive standards in education, safety, family engagement, and professional development. Fewer than 10% of early childhood programs in the U.S. earn this accreditation—making it a strong indicator of exceptional quality. What It Takes to Become Accredited in North Carolina In North Carolina, a preschool must first meet all state licensing and compliance standards. From there, the NAEYC accreditation process builds on that foundation with even more stringent criteria across ten core program standards, including: A well-rounded, developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports the whole child Qualified teachers with degrees or training in early childhood education Ongoing professional development and teacher support Low teacher-to-child ratios that allow for more personalized learning A safe, clean, and engaging physical environment Strong family partnerships and inclusive communication A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion Assessment practices that are meaningful and respectful of young learners Preschools must submit extensive documentation and go through an in-person site visit from a NAEYC assessor, who observes classrooms and evaluates evidence of quality across more than 400 criteria . Ongoing Commitment: Annual Reporting & Quality Checks NAEYC accreditation isn’t a one-time achievement—it’s a continuous commitment. Every year, accredited schools must submit an annual report confirming that they are still meeting all program standards. This includes: Updates on staffing and classroom practices Evidence of continuing education for teachers Documentation of curriculum and child assessment strategies Health, safety, and emergency preparedness policies NAEYC may also conduct random, unannounced site visits at any time during the five-year accreditation cycle to ensure that programs are maintaining their standards. Schools that do not meet the criteria may lose their accredited status. What It Means for You and Your Child At TBOP, this accreditation means your child is in a program that prioritizes safety, creativity, emotional growth, and a deep love of learning. It means our teachers are not only passionate but also qualified and continuously learning. It means we hold ourselves to the highest standards—not because we have to, but because your children deserve it. Choosing a preschool is one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. NAEYC accreditation is one way to feel confident that your child is in the right place.
If you’ve ever walked away from drop-off with tears in your eyes (yours or your child’s), you’re not alone. Separation anxiety is a completely normal part of early childhood —and it’s something we see (and gently support) every day at Temple Beth Or Preschool. Whether your child is starting school for the very first time or just returning after a long weekend, transitions can be tough. But with the right tools and support, these moments can also be opportunities for growth. Why Separation Anxiety Happens In the early years, children are still developing what psychologists call “object permanence”—the understanding that people and things continue to exist even when they’re out of sight. So when a trusted grown-up leaves, it’s not just sad—it can feel confusing or even scary. Add in a new environment, new faces, and new routines, and it's easy to see why drop-off can sometimes lead to big feelings. What We Do at TBOP to Help At TBOP, we approach separation with patience, compassion, and a deep understanding of child development. Here’s how we support both kids and parents through it: Warm, Predictable Routines Children thrive on knowing what comes next. Our morning routines are structured, familiar, and comforting, so that even if the goodbye is hard, the “hello” from their teacher and the rhythm of the classroom feels safe and known. Consistent Caregivers We keep our class sizes small and our teachers consistent. That helps your child build strong relationships with the adults in their room—and that trust becomes the bridge that eases separation. Connection-Based Support We use the Conscious Discipline model, which focuses on co-regulation and emotional safety. That means we don’t distract kids out of their feelings—we sit with them, validate their emotions, and help them find calm. Space for You, Too We know drop-offs can be just as emotional for parents. Our teachers are here to support you as well—with updates, reassurance, and an open door for your questions or concerns. What You Can Do at Home Want to help ease separation anxiety outside the classroom too? Here are a few simple strategies: Keep goodbyes short and sweet Lingering can make it harder for your child to transition. A confident, loving goodbye lets them know they’re safe. Create a goodbye ritual A special handshake, hug, or phrase can make parting feel familiar and fun. Talk about school positively Name a few things they’ll do during the day, and remind them who will be there to greet them when school is over. Read books about goodbyes Stories like The Kissing Hand or Llama Llama Misses Mama can help kids process feelings in a gentle way. This Phase Won’t Last Forever (We Promise) We’ve seen it over and over: children who struggled with separation at the start are now confidently waving goodbye, racing to their cubbies, and running into their teachers’ arms. It just takes time, patience, and a whole lot of love—which is what we’re all about at TBOP. Got questions or concerns about separation anxiety? We’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.
If you’ve ever typed “daycare vs. preschool” into Google, you’re not alone. Many families wonder: Is there a difference? Does it really matter what we call it? And most importantly: What’s the best fit for my child? At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we get this question a lot—and we love helping families understand what sets a preschool like ours apart from a more traditional daycare model. Here’s a breakdown that can help clarify things and support your decision-making. What’s the Difference Between Daycare and Preschool? The terms are often used interchangeably, but they usually describe two different types of early childhood care: Daycare Traditionally focused on providing safe care and supervision for children while parents work. The main goal is often coverage and basic routines, though some daycares offer elements of structured learning. May enroll infants through pre-K Often open longer hours (sometimes early morning to evening) Curriculum varies widely; not always educationally focused Emphasis is on care, routines, and play Preschool A preschool typically centers its program around child development and education—especially social-emotional and early academic skills. At TBOP, we follow a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Wake County kindergarten standards , all in a nurturing environment. Usually serves toddlers to pre-K Focuses on preparing children for school (and life!) Uses trained early childhood educators Emphasizes learning through play, structure, and social growth What Makes TBOP a Preschool (Not a Daycare)? While we absolutely provide loving care, TBOP is a preschool first —meaning education, connection, and growth are at the heart of every classroom. Here’s what sets us apart: NAEYC Accreditation We’re one of the few preschools in Wake County accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)—a rigorous distinction that recognizes the highest standards in curriculum, safety, and teacher quality. Kindergarten-Ready Curriculum Our play-based learning aligns with Wake County Public School standards and includes the Letterland literacy program used in local elementary schools. Kids don’t just play—they learn, grow, and thrive. Experienced, Educated Teachers Our staff are trained in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development, including Conscious Discipline training to support emotional growth. Small Class Sizes Two teachers in every classroom. Low student-to-teacher ratios. This means your child gets the attention, support, and connection they deserve. Intentional Hours We’re open until 4:00 p.m.—a schedule that supports developmentally appropriate learning without exhausting little bodies and brains. (Read more in our post: How Long Should Preschoolers Be in School? ) So, Which One Is Right for You? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some families need extended care hours and flexibility, and that’s completely valid. But if you’re looking for a nurturing environment where your child will be seen, celebrated, and prepared for what comes next— a preschool like TBOP may be the perfect fit . We’re proud to be more than a place for kids to pass the time. We’re a place where they build friendships, learn through play, develop emotional skills, and leave feeling ready for kindergarten—and the world beyond. Want to learn more about how we’re different from a daycare center? Schedule a tour , and see what a true preschool experience can look like for your child.
