Frequently asked questions
Who is Elder for, and what are the hours?
Children who are 2, 3 or 4 by the first day of school. Morning children are here from 8:30 a.m. to noon, and school-day children from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.
How does a tour work?
Tours are on school mornings, so you see the rooms in use. You meet the director and a teacher, and you take our notice and discipline policy home to read.
Is Elder licensed by the state?
No. We are a church ministry, exempt from state child care licensing under Alabama law. Our notice, who teaches and how many adults are in each room go to every family in writing.
Do we have to be Methodist?
No. Families of any faith or none are welcome, and no child is asked to pray or believe anything to take part.
How do you guide a child who is having a hard time?
A teacher gets down to the child's level, says what is happening and offers another choice. We don't use physical punishment, and you get our policy in writing before the first day.
What sets tuition?
The child's room and whether they come for the morning or the school day. The director goes through the figures with you on the tour.
How is a place held, and how does the waitlist work?
A place is held with registration and the first month. When a room is full you join the waitlist, and we write to families in the order of the list as places open.
Do children need to be toilet trained?
Not for the twos, who have a teacher to help. For threes and fours, we ask children to use the toilet on their own, with reminders and spare clothes. Tell us at the tour where your child is.
What should my child bring?
A water bottle, a change of clothes and shoes that are easy to run in. School-day children also bring lunch and a small rest blanket.
Another question?
Write to us or ask on a tour.