FAQ

At Strong Start Early Learning Center, we believe that informed parents are essential to a child’s success. We are dedicated to maintaining open communication and ensuring that parents are well-informed about our childcare program, educational philosophy, and our approach to early childhood education.

How old are the children you provide care for?

We welcome children ages six weeks to 5 years in four age-appropriate programs: infants, toddlers, twos, and pre-kindergarten. Children are grouped with their kindergarten cohort, ensuring that every child in a given class is simultaneously eligible for kindergarten in Connecticut. This approach promotes optimal development and continuity, allowing children to grow and learn alongside their same-aged peers.

How will you help my child in the transition to Kindergarten?

At Strong Start, we know that transitioning to kindergarten is a big step. Our Pre-K program is thoughtfully designed to make that transition seamless by exceeding early childhood standards and aligning with the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards. Guided by our Reggio Emilia–inspired approach, children engage in hands-on learning that builds confidence, independence, and school readiness. We also incorporate the Learning Without Tears program to support early writing skills in a fun, developmentally appropriate way.

What are your safety and security standards?

At Strong Start, your child’s safety is our top priority. We go above and beyond Connecticut’s state licensing requirements to ensure a secure, nurturing environment where children can thrive.

Our comprehensive safety measures include:

24/7 Video Surveillance throughout our school
Controlled Building Access to prevent unauthorized entry
Thorough Background Checks for all staff members
Panic Buttons for immediate emergency response
Emergency Evacuation & Lockdown Procedures practiced regularly

In addition to advanced security technology, all visitors must sign in and out, and our team receives ongoing safety training to stay prepared for any situation. We’re committed to maintaining a safe, stable, and welcoming space for every child and family.

What are your hours of operation?

We are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. We are closed on recognized holidays; please reference our closing calendar for a full list of closure dates.

What is the square footage devoted to each child?

At Strong Start, we believe children need room to move, explore, and grow. That’s why we go beyond state requirements to create spacious, thoughtfully designed learning environments. While Connecticut regulations require just 35 square feet per child, research shows 45–55 square feet is ideal. At Strong Start, we provide 45–55 square feet of classroom space per child—with a total facility size of 100 gross square feet per child to ensure comfort and quality across all areas. Our classrooms are open, engaging, and designed to foster hands-on discovery, creativity, and curiosity. Every inch is intentionally planned to support meaningful learning and joyful play.

What is your teacher-to-child ratio?

The child to teacher ratios within our facility are consistently maintained in accordance with the regulations set forth by the state of Connecticut. This ensures that each child receives adequate attention and supervision, promoting a safe and conducive learning environment.

What are your teacher qualifications?

Our experienced teachers meet all state and local licensing requirements and receive ongoing professional development through both state-approved training and support from our in-house Curriculum Director. All Pre-K Head Teachers are required to hold a degree.

Is there a playground on-site?

Absolutely, yes! Each Strong Start location has a beautiful, naturalistic playground designed with young children in mind. Our outdoor spaces are large and thoughtfully planned, featuring padded areas where children can safely ride bikes, climb, explore, and have fun. Outdoor play is an important part of our day—children go out twice daily (weather permitting) to enjoy fresh air, build gross motor skills, and engage in joyful, active play.

Do you have an indoor play space for inclement weather?

Yes! Each Strong Start location features a large, spacious indoor gym. These areas are designed to keep children physically active and engaged—especially during inclement weather. While our indoor gyms are used for our Fit Kids program and art shows, their primary purpose is to provide a safe, open space where children can move, play, and stay active no matter the forecast.

Are all staff trained in CPR and First Aid?

Yes.

How do you manage children’s behavior?

At Strong Start, we use a positive behavioral support model that focuses on proactive strategies, consistent routines, and developmentally appropriate expectations. Our goal is to guide children with empathy, helping them build emotional regulation, problem-solving, and social skills.

For children who may need additional support, we work closely with families to observe, document, and understand each child’s unique needs. When appropriate, we make referrals to trusted outside specialists, such as early intervention providers, therapists, or evaluators, to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive.

What are your rates?

Our tuition rates are comparable to others in your local premium childcare market.

Do you provide education or only childcare?

At Strong Start, our curriculum is rooted in research and aligned with the Connecticut Early Learning Standards. Inspired by the founder’s academic journey through Williams College, Yeshiva University, and research collaborations at Yale, our program is built on the best practices in child development. We aim to spark a love of learning from within—nurturing each child’s natural curiosity and intrinsic motivation. Through a child-centered, inquiry-based, and play-focused approach, we create learning environments where exploration, discovery, and joy thrive.

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