Step Ahead Learning Center expands services

Wednesday, December 28, 2005

By Afton Bugg

Nevada Daily Mail

Step Ahead Learning Center is expanding, to meet the needs of Nevada's community for infant and toddler child care as well as after school care for older children. Mid-January marks the arrival of that expansion, with a new 4,400 square-foot center. They have also expanded hours to accommodate more parents' schedules. New hours will be 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday though Friday.

Cindy Beisly, director of the center, is in the process of opening a new "all-age" care center for Nevada's children, expanding on the preschool center Beisly opened three years ago.

Judy Polk, infant/toddler lead teacher said, "My son has attended the pre-K at Step Ahead for two years and I couldn't ask for a better place to take my son everyday, so I became a part of it."

Step Ahead Learning Center is a state licensed developmental program for infants to five years old. They also will provide before and after school care children up to 13 years old. The center is currently seeking state accreditation. Step Ahead Learning Center accepts state assistance for families who qualify.

Beisly said, "Our objective here is to provide the most stimulating environment that promotes a child's development. We believe that learning can never be too much fun."

Polk said, "Our infants' schedules are fully individualized based upon parent specifications, so infants don't require readjustment in their schedules during the weekends. Each infant's activities are documented daily to keep parents in touch. Trust and positive relationships with a loving, caring teacher are the focus at this precious age. The toddler classroom is shared with the infant room to allow little ones to transition into the action at their own pace. Toddlers will enjoy daily activities such as 'Toddlerobics', 'Snuggly-story time', and plenty of cuddle time."

Mandy Smith, the preschool lead teacher said, "The preschooler's classroom for 2- to 3-year-olds focuses on verbal and social skills along with elements of potty training. Self-discipline, cooperation, and creative expression are taught through fun activities and role-playing. Listening to stories, music and movement experiences, and a variety of play and art centers are always available for the child's exploration."

Jessica Read, pre-kindergarten lead teacher and senior lead teacher said, "The older pre-schoolers explore concepts in areas of reading and math readiness, science and social studies as well as continued growth in language and physical development, skills that only a fully certified teacher could provide. The child's curiosity, independence, and self-confidence are fostered through the use of center play activities."

The center's after school care program provides the children with outdoor play, table games, arts and crafts or supervised homework periods. Nevada R-5 buses transport children directly to the center where they can participate. Care for the after school children is also available when there are school closings if parents have already signed up prior to the closing.

Beisly said, "Our children are taught how to love learning, and how to respect themselves, others and their environment. We follow the Creative Curriculum, which is linked to state and national standards. Ask any of our parents about their experience here and you will learn why we are expanding. We are looking forward to opening. There is a real shortage of infant/toddler care available right now in Nevada."

Those interested in enrolling a child in the program must fill out an application, and the application process includes a home visit from one of the lead teachers.

To apply a child into this program, call Step Ahead Learning Center at (417) 667-7917.

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