FAQ

We know that sending your little one off to school can be an emotional time. Gathering all the details you need to feel great about your choice of school is critical. We hope the answers below will get a few of those top-of-mind concerns out of the way for you. We also hope you’ll email us, eager to learn more. 

  • The Children’s Academy is a Montessori Pre-School and Kindergarten catering to children ages 2 ½ - 6.

  • No, your child does not have to be potty trained to attend The Academy. Our teachers in The Transitional Room are prepared to change diapers and will spend time in this preparatory environment readying your little one to join The Big Room, a larger and more independent space. We do ask that parents provide diapers, wipes and spare clothing.

  • Tuition is paid either monthly or in three annual installments.

  • We are very fortunate to share our space with The First Presbyterian Church - they make lovely neighbors, but no, we are not affiliated with any one belief set or religious organization. That said, The Academy’s students are exposed to many of the holidays that are celebrated all around the world.

  • If you can make it to us, then our doors are open to you. That said, we are centrally located in Springfield, NJ and many of our students hail from Maplewood, South Orange, Millburn, Short Hills, Union and of course, Springfield.

  • The Children’s Academy does not conduct admissions interviews. We encourage all parents to attend one of our open house events, or schedule a private visit with our Directors, Mrs. DeJohn & Mrs.Tschopp. Our doors are open to everyone, we look only at love, kindness and respect.

  • Basic level Spanish and French are a beloved part of The Academy’s yearly curriculum.

  • Indeed, we are a 100% peanut free zone.

  • Yes, we do require proof of an annual flu shot, as well as a completed Standard School / Child Care Center Immunization Record from your child’s pediatrician.

  • Yes, we host 4-6 open house events every year. Please call or email our staff directly if you’d like to request additional details before attending an open house, or to schedule a private visit.

  • Absolutely. This is a very common practice and we’re glad to facilitate the connection. Simply email our office and we’ll provide you with Alumni contact information.

  • All of our educators and staff are fingerprinted and experience an extensive background check. We utilize the state-mandated CARI Clearance and New Jersey’s CHRI system. This applies to anyone who works full time or part time with the children in any capacity.

  • All of our teachers are Montessori certified & trained, which you can read more about on the Our Teachers page. Our school is also accredited by all of the major Montessori licensing organizations.