What to Expect

Who cares for my child?

People who have a heart for young children staff Praise Island.  All teachers are members of Biltmore Baptist Church, and many of them have identified teaching as one of their spiritual gifts.  In addition to the teachers, another equally important group are our VIPs - Volunteers in Praise Island.  This group is made up primarily of parents who serve either during the 9:15 a.m. Connect Group hour or 11 a.m. worship care.

What security measures are in place?

Children must be checked in to Praise Island at one of the Kiosks outside of the Preschool area.  A security label for each child with a matching one for the parent will be printed.  (One label is placed on the child, and the other is for the parent to show for pick-up.) Only the adult with the security label will be allowed to pick up the child.  If the parent label is lost, the parent must show ID to the Director.
Preschoolers must be brought to their rooms by their parent or legal guardian.  Parents must sign in the child, providing their location during the time away from child and also their cell number so they can be reached in emergency.  Additionally, all of our volunteers are screened and must agree to a criminal background check before working with our children.

What if my child needs me while I'm in class or worship?

We understand at times children have issues needing their parents' attention.  When you sign your child into class in Praise Island, we ask for a phone number to contact you and where you will be both hours that you are here.  If you are needed during a worship service we flash the last four digits of your phone number on screens located on either side of the worship center.  If a parent is in a Connect Group, we go to their classroom to relay any message directly to that parent.

What activities are available for my child?

All children are assigned a Connect Group. During this time, our little ones are nurtured and loved and taught the basic concepts they will need to one day develop a personal relationship with Jesus.

Will my child be in the same room for both hours?

In order to provide the best possible care for our children, we must close rooms at times to maintain the proper adult/child ratio.  If your child is moved from one room to another, that information will be posted at the door.

What discipline methods are used?

We use "time out" as the primary discipline method; however, when a child is in time out, he or she is not learning or participating in the lesson activities.  We generally try to re-direct a child's attention away from the unacceptable behavior.  While we do not use "discipline methods" for infants, we use many different tools to calm an upset or crying baby, such as strolling or walking in the hallways.  Children do not leave the Praise Island area unless it is for an approved activity in another section of the church campus.

I have a child with special needs.  What is available for him/her?

We have a program staffed by teachers with gifts and passions for kids with special needs called Jars of Clay >>.  If at all possible, we try to "mainstream" a child into his or her appropriate classroom; however, this may not be in the best interest of the child.  If you have a child who requires specific attention in this area, we encourage you to call the Kids' Ministry office at 687-1111 ext. 191 so we can discuss your child's needs and find the best fit for your family.

Will my child have a snack?

Children are offered a light snack, such as graham crackers, Saltines, Goldfish and water.  Many times, our older children will prepare food as part of a Connect Group lesson.  If this is the case, the teacher will post an "allergy alert" notice.  If your child has a specific allergy, please inform the child's teacher as soon as possible.

Will my child play outside?

 Yes, weather permitting

Preschool Policy >>

For more information, email Carla >>

 

 Awana | Home School | Jars of Clay | MOPS | Newborn Ministry 
Parent Child Dedication | Parents Night Out | VBS