Frequently Asked Questions

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What ages do you enroll?

We enroll children starting at 2 years old through pre-kindergarten.
 

When does the school year begin and end?

Our school year begins the second week of September and runs through the end of June. After a one-week break during the 4th of July week, we transition into our summer camp programs.
 

Do you offer summer camps?

Yes! We offer summer camps throughout July and August for children ages 2–7. Camps include outdoor exploration, art, sensory play, movement, and themed activities.
 

What are your school hours?

Our classrooms begin between 8:30–9:00 AM.

Half-day pick-up is at 1:00 PM.
Full-day pick-up is by 4:00 PM.

We also offer optional aftercare until 5:30 PM for $20 per day.
 

Do you offer nap time?

Yes. Full-day students have an optional nap/rest period from 1:00 PM–3:00 PM each day.
 

What are your teacher-to-student ratios?

Each classroom has approximately 10–12 students with 2–3 teachers. In addition to classroom teachers, we also have a dedicated Art & Movement teacher who works with all classes.
 

Do children spend time outdoors?

Absolutely. Outdoor exploration is a large part of our program. Children spend time outside daily whenever weather and safety conditions allow. We regularly explore nearby nature spaces and incorporate outdoor learning into our curriculum.
 

Do you provide meals?

We provide a morning snack and an afternoon snack each day. Families provide lunches.

Our snacks always include:

• A fruit or vegetable

• A grain

• A protein
   

Can you accommodate allergies and dietary preferences?

Yes. We work closely with families to accommodate allergies and dietary preferences whenever possible.

While we are not a nut-free school, we do not serve foods containing nuts. We also ensure that children are never served foods they are allergic to. Each classroom has allergen-free tables to help avoid cross-contamination.
 

How do I join the waiting list?

Families can join our waiting list by completing our registration form and paying a $50 registration fee.

We recommend joining the waiting list as early as possible, as spots are limited and often fill far in advance.
 

Can I register my child before they are born?

Yes! Families are welcome to register children who are still in utero. Simply list the child’s name as “TBD” and provide an estimated due date as the birth date.
 

Do you enroll children mid-year?

Because we operate on a school-year model, we rarely enroll mid-year unless a currently enrolled family moves or withdraws unexpectedly.
 

How do enrollment offers work?

Enrollment offers for the upcoming school year typically begin going out in February. Families on the waiting list are contacted as spots become available based on classroom availability and age group fit.

Enrollment paperwork and deposits must be completed by the stated deadline to secure the space.
 

Do I need to re-register for the waiting list each year?

No. Families do not need to re-register annually. If your child is not selected for a spot during a school year, they will automatically remain on the waiting list and move up as spaces become available in future years.
 

Do you offer tours?

We do not offer individual tours. Instead, we host two Open Houses each year — one in the fall and one in the spring.

Open Houses are available to families currently on our waiting list.
 

How do teachers communicate with families?

We believe strong communication with families is essential. Teachers send weekly newsletters with classroom highlights, photos, upcoming events, and important school information. Admin and parents communicate over email or our app.
 

What is your teaching philosophy?

Our program focuses on social-emotional learning, creativity, outdoor exploration, and play-based education. We believe children learn best through hands-on experiences, meaningful relationships, and opportunities to explore the world around them.

 

Do you use technology or screens in the classroom?

No. Hazelwood is a screen-free program. We prioritize hands-on learning, creativity, outdoor exploration, sensory experiences, movement, and social interaction instead of screen-based activities.
 

What should my child bring to school?

Children should bring:

• A packed lunch

• A water bottle

• Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing

• Extra clothes for accidents or messy play

Because we spend time outdoors year-round, appropriate outdoor gear is very important.
 

Are children required to be potty trained?

Children do not need to be potty trained to enroll at age 2 or 3. However, children are expected to be potty trained by age 4.
 

How large are your classes?

Our classes are intentionally small to support strong relationships and individualized attention. Most classrooms have 10–12 children.
 

Do you close for holidays and breaks?

Yes. As a school-year program, we follow a yearly calendar that includes holidays and scheduled school breaks. Families receive the full calendar before the school year begins.

We also offer optional Mid-Winter Break Camp and Spring Break Camp for enrolled families who would like additional care and programming during school breaks.
 

What makes Hazelwood different?

Hazelwood combines play-based learning, nature exploration, creativity, and strong community relationships in a warm and welcoming environment. Our small class sizes, outdoor curriculum, and emphasis on emotional development help create a joyful and meaningful early childhood experience.