Our faith
A Methodist church preschool, in plain words
Elder Preschool is a ministry of Elder Street United Methodist Church. Faith is part of the day, and it is in view, so you decide with the facts.
Bible stories
A teacher tells one story a day, with pictures and a few questions. Stories come from both the Old and New Testaments, and children are invited to say what they noticed.
Songs
Children sing hymns and action songs from the church's children's songbook, with Mr. Tuggle on the keyboard for the morning song.
Blessing at the table
A short blessing before snack and lunch, said together. Children who would rather listen are welcome to.
In the room
What a child is not asked to do
Pray or believe to take part
A child can sit through a blessing, listen to a story and sing without being asked what they believe.
Leave their own family's faith at the door
Families of any faith or none are enrolled here. We ask you to tell us what your family observes, and teachers keep it in mind.
Be corrected about home
A teacher does not tell a child that what their family believes or eats is wrong.
Questions
Questions about faith
Do we have to be members of the church?
No. Most of our families are, and many are not. Everyone enrolls the same way.
Can my child sit out the blessing or the songs?
Yes. A teacher offers a quiet seat and a book, and nothing is held against a child who listens instead.
Does the pastor visit the rooms?
Pastor visits happen a few times a year, with the director and a teacher present. Families hear about each visit ahead of time.
Is the curriculum a church curriculum?
The learning blocks are a standard early childhood plan for letters, counting, art and play. The Bible story and songs sit beside it.
Where can I read what you teach?
Ask for the family sheet at the tour. It covers the stories, songs and blessings by age, and you can keep it.
Hear it from Mrs. Turnage in person
Come and ask whatever you like about faith, discipline or the day.