Overbrook Preschool is a loving and enriching environment in which children can grow and learn in a safe and secure setting. The Preschool began serving the north Columbus area in 1966. Overbrook is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. In 1986 it became one of the first centers in Franklin County to earn this distinction. Overbrook Preschool has a Three-Star, Step Up to Quality rating from the State of Ohio.

     Our teachers have four-year college degrees and continue to expand and improve their knowledge and information about young learners by participating in continuing education and in-service trainings. The Preschool Director, Dr. Joyce Matthews, has led the preschool for 30 years.

     Ohio Early Learning Content Standards are incorporated in the preschool curriculum and presented in the context of play. Teachers plan activities and learning centers based on the interests and development of the children in their classes. Classes always have at least two teachers that work as a team.

     Lunch Bunch is another program offered for preschoolers. The children stay an extra 1 1/4 hours at school and play and a eat lunch that has been provided by their parent. The Lunch Bunch program is supervised by teachers and supported by parent volunteers.

     Overbrook Preschool also offers a Parents’ Day Out (PDO) program for children ages 2 – 3 years old who are not old enough for the regular preschool program or who have not yet achieved toileting. PDO is a semi-cooperative offering. It is supervised by two paid caregivers and augmented with parents who take turns working in the room. Most parents work about once every six weeks.

     At Overbrook Preschool we believe in giving these very young children a sense of their own worth, as well as that of others. The preschool provides an atmosphere of understanding and love in which children are learning and growing in a manner compatible with Christian living. Overbrook is located in an urban setting and draws from a wide community. We welcome families of all traditions and family settings.

     Our emergent curriculum is geared to helping children develop good work habits, encourage acceptable social skills and positive relationships, and allow them to grow as individuals in a happy, safe and challenging environment. Teachers give careful consideration to the Ohio Early Learning Content Standards relating to literacy, math, science and social studies. The standards are included in everyday activities and explored through children’s play and enrichment opportunities.

     We believe that children should always be treated with love, understanding and respect. When a child is experiencing a difficult day our approach is positive, loving and consistent. We work with the child and parents to develop successful strategies to avoid or redirect negative behavior. Formal Parent/Teacher conferences are held twice each year but teachers believe parents are important partners in early learning and encourage parents to communicate with them regularly about their child.

     Parents are considered key participants in the preschool learning experience. Our center promotes open visitation, has many volunteer opportunities and encourages parents to share their traditions, hobbies, work, and/or talents with us.