Bright, happy and fun, the activities that fill the schedule at the NOBTS preschool center invite children to explore and play.  At the preschool, play is an invitation to learn.

“Play allows children to develop cognitively, physically and emotionally,” said Catherine Abel, assistant director. “Many people don’t realize that play is an overall learning experience. It provides opportunities for children to develop their imaginations, social skills and autonomy.”

Ice painting, trips to the Quad to see God’s handiwork in nature, or snuggling up with a book are some of the ways the preschool brings fun to learning.

A four-star ranked facility that is academically approved by the Louisiana Department of Education, the center is committed to training up the “whole child.” The center emphasizes that each child is unique and created by God.

Directed by Kim Craig, the preschool education center incorporates a Christ-centered and ministry-based curriculum with the care of a qualified teaching staff. Children ages six weeks to five years old are accepted.

Elizabeth Terrill, who works in the research doctoral program office, said the preschool staff has cared for her three children throughout their combined nine years of enrollment.

“I always feel comfortable leaving my children, knowing there are in great hands,” Terrill said. “In addition to them caring for them physically, the preschool also does a great job caring for them spiritually and educationally. Both of my grade school aged children were well prepared when they entered kindergarten.”

Lead teachers are credentialed at the Child Development Associate level, or above, through the Louisiana Pathways Early Learning Career Development System, a nationwide transferable credential based on competency standards that demonstrate proficiency in the areas of social, emotional, physical and intellectual child development.

Arts and crafts favorites with the children include the “All about Me” collage at the beginning of the year and the Mother’s Day crafts in May.

In the classroom, worship, music and Bible story time are staples.

“It’s sweet to hear the kids singing worship songs,” Abel said.

Open year-round, the center provides tours of the facility upon request. Space is always available for children of NOBTS students, staff and faculty.

Two summer camps are offered. The Pre-K4 Summer camp, for children aged 4 years by May 1, and the School-Age Summer Camp, for children who have completed kindergarten and up through 6th grade, allows parents to choose which weeks to attend.

For information, visit the preschool website at www.nolakidz.com or call 504.816.8585.