DREAM

EXPLORE

DISCOVER

Though often regarded as unimportant, my belief is that play is critical to all aspects of a child’s development. It offers a natural, versatile, ever-fascinating way to learn. It affords diverse and healthy resolution opportunities when discipline is called for. And it forms the foundation of positive relationships between children and their parents.

CAMI KNUDSEN, PLAYSCHOOL DIRECTOR

PlaySchool Hours
The PlaySchool is Temporarily Closed Until Further Notice

Phone: 503-636-8962

PlaySchool Director:
cami@mtparkhoa.com

IMAGINATION, EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY ARE ENCOURAGED.

The PlaySchool at Mountain Park has served the neighborhood since 1974, educating children 14 months – 5 years old in a play-based environment. The school offers outstanding indoor and outdoor learning spaces, teaches socialization, and utilizes a play-based emergent curriculum that is developmental, hands-on, sensory and active.

Our goal is to invite a love of learning, foster curiosity, and encourage an attitude of “I’ll try.”

EXPLORE

The curriculum here is called “Emergent” because it evolves, moving along new paths as choices and connections are made, always open to ideas. Through “teachable moment” interactions between children and teachers, it explores what is socially relevant, intellectually engaging and personally meaningful. And, because it weaves experience and prior learning with play, it helps children deepen their understanding of the world.

FOR OUR STUDENTS, PLAY HAS REAL VALUE:

  • It’s a healthy, constructive energy outlet.
  • It prompts exploration.
  • It encourages creativity.
  • It teaches social awareness and problem-solving.
  • It allows kids to rehearse real-life situations.
  • It helps develop coordination and concentration.
  • It allows experience to instruct.
  • It builds confidence and self-esteem.

THINGS PLAYSCHOOL KIDS LIKE BEST:

  • The large, park-like playground, with views of the mountains.
  • Play-based learning. It’s not work; it’s fun.
  • Warm, welcoming, family-like atmosphere.

DISCOVER

If you have questions about programs or processes, would like to arrange a visit so you can experience the way the school feels, or are interested in taking steps to enroll your child, just let us know. Thank you for your interest!

SERVING FOUR AGE GROUPS

14 MONTHS AND UP

Children in the Toddler Program develop a sense of self and others by exploring freely, making choices, socializing with children their own age and practicing self-help skills.

Student-teacher ratio: 4:1

Meet Teacher Andy
Meet Teacher Melissa

2 YEARS AND UP

The Jr. Preschool serves as an introduction to our Preschool program. The daily schedule allows ample time for exploration and discovery in all interest areas. The children in this classroom will continue to exercise their independence by learning to make appropriate choices and decisions. They will work on fine-tuning their potty training and self help skills.

Student-teacher ratio: 5:1

Meet Teacher Marjan
Meet Teacher Alyssa

3 TO 4 YEARS

The Preschool curriculum spans all areas of development including social, emotional, cognitive, and physical. The classrooms are set up with interest centers such as blocks, dramatic play, reading, sensory, art, science, and music. Potty training is required prior to enrollment in our Preschool program.

Student-teacher ratio: 10:1

Meet Teacher Jackie
Meet Teacher Jordan

4 TO 5 YEARS

Pre-Kindergarten is a developmental program designed so children learn at their own pace within a group setting. The children explore a wide variety of subjects and materials through a number of integrated experiences. It is an excellent stepping-stone on the path to Kindergarten.

Student-teacher ratio: 10:1

Meet Teacher Mara
Meet Teacher Lacey

ENROLLMENT

FALL 2024 ENROLLMENT DATES
February 12: Current Families and Mt. Park Residents
March 5: New Families

FOR PARENTS:

We’ve created this handy document to help parents learn more about PlaySchool, our policies and our philosophy. Thank you for taking the time to read it over. Of course, if you have any questions we’re always here to answer them!

PARENT GUIDE
CALENDAR
WINTER NEWSLETTER