Our Daily Rhythm

Our daily schedule strikes the perfect balance between structure and play, offering plenty of time for both guided learning and child-led discovery.

At Cedar Gables, our days are thoughtfully structured to balance play, learning, rest, and connection. We follow a consistent daily rhythm that gives children the security of routine while offering the flexibility to explore, discover, and grow. From the moment your child arrives, they are welcomed into a warm environment filled with opportunities for creativity, movement, friendship, and meaningful learning.

Preschool teacher warmly greeting a group of smiling children in a bright, cheerful classroom to start the day with connection and joy at Cedar Gables Preschool.

Morning: A Warm Welcome and Joyful Start

6:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Children ease into the day with breakfast, story time, and unstructured free play that allows for gentle transitions and social connection.

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Free play continues as children choose from engaging classroom centers and materials designed to spark imagination and independence.

9:30 AM – 9:45 AM
Snack time gives children a healthy boost and a chance to recharge before diving into the day’s main activities. Diaper changes and bathroom routines are also gently woven in at this time.

Preschool teacher supporting children during a focused learning activity, part of a balanced midday routine of guided instruction and hands-on exploration at Cedar Gables Preschool.

Midday: Guided Learning and Active Exploration

9:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Children come together for Circle Time, where they sing songs, read stories, and explore the day’s theme. This is followed by hands-on learning experiences, sensory activities, and age-appropriate challenges that encourage growth and discovery.

11:15 AM – 11:50 AM
We head outside or engage in gross motor activities to move, stretch, and play. Our spacious outdoor area offers room to run, climb, and explore in a safe and natural environment.

11:50 AM – 12:00 PM
A short transition time helps children clean up, reset, and prepare for lunch.

Preschool children enjoying lunch together at a shared table, refueling with healthy food and social connection as part of Cedar Gables Preschool’s afternoon rhythm.

Afternoon: Refueling and Rest

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Lunch is a calm, social part of the day where children eat together, practice self-help skills, and enjoy conversation with peers and teachers.

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Nap time allows children to rest and recharge in a quiet, cozy environment. Teachers support a calm atmosphere that helps every child settle comfortably.

Two preschool girls laughing and doing headstands on the grass during outdoor play, part of the late afternoon rhythm focused on movement, connection, and winding down at Cedar Gables Preschool.

Late Afternoon: Connection, Movement, and Wind Down

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM
After waking, children enjoy a healthy snack and prepare for afternoon play.

3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
The day wraps up with outdoor play, free choice activities, clean-up routines, and final goodbyes—sending each child home happy and fulfilled.

Circle Time

Each morning begins with a warm welcome, stories, songs, and a look ahead at the day. This daily routine builds classroom community and introduces children to the themes and ideas they’ll explore.

Preschool teacher leading a small group in letter and shape activities at Cedar Gables Preschool, guiding early literacy and fine motor development through hands-on learning.

Guided Activities

Teachers introduce new concepts through hands-on activities that are just beyond a child’s current skill level—supporting growth through encouragement, modeling, and exploration.

Literacy Workshop

Our Literacy Workshop blends storytelling, movement, and play to build early reading and writing foundations in an engaging, developmentally appropriate way for every age group.

Small Group Activities

These open-ended activities encourage communication, collaboration, and problem-solving in small peer groups. Children practice taking turns, expressing themselves, and navigating social dynamics in a developmentally supportive setting.