All children ages 3  through 5 in the Missoula area are eligible for enrollment in the Learning and Belonging (LAB) Pre-School.  Two sessions are offered (8:45–11:45 am or 12:45-3:45 pm) Monday – Thursday. The program calendar is based on The University of Montana calendar with the exception of an additional three- week preschool session during the lengthy winter semester break.  Enrollment for the upcoming preschool year takes place on a first-come, first-served basis each February and March according to the date applications are received by the program.  Currently enrolled children and their siblings as well as siblings of previously enrolled children are given preference in this process. A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of enrollment.

Program philosophy:

We believe our primary goal begins with a promise to serve as guardians of childhood. This commitment includes maintaining a small group size that supports our goal of meeting the individual strengths, interests and needs of each child in the program. The classroom environment and expectations are created with respect for child development and the individuality of each child. In order to provide the highest possible care for each child, we:

• support each child's active participation in real, meaningful projects designed to allow success and challenge at individual developmental levels
• introduce activities and materials that foster development of the whole child in multiple areas across developmental domains
• offer multiple opportunities for self-selected exploration, social interaction, and problem solving
• use positive child guidance techniques that teach skills adn support children's emerging self-regulation
• respect families and value the unique qualities of each child represented in our progam

Meaningful Learning:

The Learning and Belonging Pre-School uses knowledge of child growth and development, the latest research, recommendations of professional organizations, and the Montana Early Learning Guidelines to guide our teaching practice.  We recognize the importance of creating meaningful learning experiences for young children.  To accomplish this, we introduce projects based on children's interests that give them opportunities to use the skills they are learning to explore real places, objects, and events in the world around them.