The Young School Early Education Program

The Young School in Columbia is nothing short of amazing. The staff and teachers have helped my son develop many skills that will prepare him for kindergarten. The program moves at his pace, and allows him to focus on his development as an individual.

We are so thankful to have found The Young School at Kings Contrivance! Our 4 year old son has loved everything from the directors and teachers to the program curriculum, creative projects, and daily music and art! A+ rating from this momma!

Our children have attended The Young School (TYS) at King's Contrivance from the infant program through their Pre-K program. As soon as we took a tour of The Young School on Guilford Rd we knew that it was the right place for our children. The school environment is lively, and different than the other daycare centers. We have had excellent experiences throughout the 4 years that we have interacted with the team at TYS. One of the main strengths of the program at TYS is that the curriculum is based on the RIE philosophy. The children are encouraged to be the initiator, a explorer and a self-learner. This along with a very loving environment has helped our children to develop into independent, thoughtful, and caring children. Another strength is the administration. The team has low turn over and are a well-run and disciplined group of individuals. They always make the time to answer any questions or concerns that I may have. I feel comfortable knowing that they are running the school in a safe and loving manner. My favorite thing about TYS are the teachers. They are well trained, are always willing to talk about any concerns that I may have, as well as are willing to talk to me about any concerns that they may have. In the Pre-K program, the language, science and math teachers are excellent. Even in the non-academic months (summer time), the children are still learning important skills such as team work during fun activities like school-wide Olympics and water play.

Both of my children have been at this school since the infant care program and I couldn't be happier. The teachers are great with the kids, the optional enrichment programs are wonderful for working parents who don't have time for extracurricular activities, and I have very much found that my kindergartner was well prepared for kindergarten based on what she was taught at the Young School. Communication has been amazing from the daily tidbits, to parent boards, to the cottage director emails. I love that the preschool program allows for older and younger children to learn from each other, as it is a mixed age environment (3-5). The curriculum is play and learning based but children receive more structure as they get closer to kindergarten.

All of my children have attended TYS and the teachers and administration have proved to be caring. Good hours, centrally located without traffic issues. Hours of 7-6 are more limited than others (6:30-6:30). Although a 3rd party vendor can provide lunches (at cost), my children only liked the yogurt and pasta so I do end up packing our own. Extra curricular classes in ballet/ gymnastics/ music/ swimming (extra cost) have been a hit.

I find The Young School to be perfect for my little girl! They were able to train my daughter to use utensils and drinking from a cup (no sippy cups required!). They let us know when things need to be changed to accommodate her new skills or independence. The school plans for activities for all the kids to enjoy. For example, they have water play for all ages (other than infants), circle/ story time, playing with instruments, etc. I cannot wait to have her join the toddler / pre-K program where they have so many classes where she can explore, learn, and have fun!