Frequently Asked Questions

Although all classes are slightly different a typical day might be:

Starting the day in the classroom meeting, greeting and playing with our friends as we begin our time at CNS

Gathering for story time, discussion, lesson and explanation of the day’s project (usually art or science themed)

Utilizing the large multi-purpose room for activities like music, dance, yoga, reading in the loft, and playing (large building blocks, train table, work table and tools, dress up clothes, etc)

Going outside for playtime at one of our two beautiful playgrounds

CNS holds one formal parent teacher conference a year. However, teachers are available to confer with you at any time and you will have ample opportunities to see the growth of your child while assisting in the classroom as a parent helper. 

Yes. Our doors are always locked. Anyone entering the school must present themselves at the front door security device and provide verbal and physical identification prior to entry. Additionally, CNS staff carry cell phones and parent contact information when outside the school building as well as any medication pertinent to a child in their care. CNS has additional protocols in place in the event of other emergencies

No. Parents and caregivers should pack a morning snack each day.

Lunch is not provided; children are to bring a lunch for the afternoon programs. 

Yes. CNS is a nut-free facility and we strictly adhere to this policy. The safety and well-being of all of our students is our first and foremost priority! 

Yes, we are a licensed pre-school facility and all children are required to have all vaccinations mandated by the state of Connecticut, including the flu vaccine. The COVID vaccine is not currently required for enrollment.

The teachers at CNS will make every effort possible to allow outside play for the children, even if it’s a bit chilly or if there’s a bit of snow on the ground! Parents are asked to provide proper clothing each day for their children, especially if inclement weather is predicted. 

If Guilford Public Schools has cancelled class then CNS will also close. If Guilford Public Schools has either a late start or an early dismissal then CNS will keep its regularly scheduled program hours. 

As a cooperative nursery school, parent / caregiver involvement is important to the success of our children and the school! 

Parents or caregivers participate in the classroom a minimum of four times per year (there is no buy out option), attend one work party, and volunteer for The Little Folks Fair the first Saturday in June. Families also choose one co-op position to fulfill (such as webmaster) over the course of the year.

CNS does not offer a buy out option for the cooperative.

When you send your child to CNS, you receive more than a play-based, outdoor inspired education. You receive access to our community, which has a strong value to our enrolled families.

The cooperative model is the primary way we build active and engaged connections throughout the school, and we require all families to commit to strengthening our community.

Although siblings are welcome during drop-off and pick-up time, we ask you to arrange care outside of school for other children when you parent-help. 

CNS has one main source of fundraising known as The Little Folks Fair, a Connecticut Shoreline favorite event held on Guilford’s historic Green on the first Saturday in June. All parents are required to help prepare for and host the event. 

You will have many opportunities to interact with fellow CNS families. “Coffee Hours” are held early in the fall as a way to meet and greet other parents in the school. A school picnic is held in the fall and again in the spring. Parent forums featuring special guest speakers may occur throughout the school year as well.