.png)
Frequently Asked Questions
The Children's Place Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is play-based learning, and why is it important?
A: At The Children’s Place, we believe that play is the foundation of early childhood development. Play-based learning empowers children to explore, create, problem-solve, and build relationships in meaningful ways. It’s through play that children naturally develop critical thinking skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Q: What kinds of activities will my child engage in?
A: Children might build with blocks, engage in dramatic play, paint at the easel, or explore the outdoors. Each of these experiences supports the development of language, emotional intelligence, physical coordination, and social skills—all at their own pace.
Q: How does your program support the whole child?
A: Our approach nurtures not just academic readiness, but also emotional, social, and physical growth. We offer a variety of hands-on experiences in art, science, music, drama, and movement, designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Q: How do you ensure individualized learning?
A: Our compassionate and experienced educators work closely with families to develop individualized learning plans. We recognize and support each child’s unique strengths, challenges, and developmental timeline.
Q: How do you communicate with families?
A: We prioritize ongoing communication and strong partnerships with families. Our educators maintain regular contact and work together with parents to support each child’s learning and growth.
Q: What makes The Children’s Place different?
A: We provide a warm, nurturing environment where children are free to explore, experiment, and grow. Our emphasis on play-based learning helps children gain independence and self-confidence while developing the skills they need to thrive—now and in the future.
Q: Why do you say ‘play is how we help children thrive’?
A: Because at The Children’s Place, play isn’t just an activity—it’s our philosophy. Everything we do is rooted in the belief that meaningful, child-led play is the most effective and joyful way for young children to learn and grow.
Q: Can I schedule a tour?
Absolutely! We have multiple tour times available to work with all schedules. Schedule a tour HERE.
Q: Do you accept subsidy payments?
We do! Our Board of Directors feels strongly that everyone should have access to high quality affordable child care. TCP works with 4C's of San Mateo County for subsidies. You can learn more about what is available by visiting www.sanmateo4cs.org.
Q: Do you accept children in diapers?
A: Yes! TCP supplies the wipes and parents supply the diapers. Our staff will also help with potty training when the child is ready.
Q: Where do the children play outside?
A: We have a large yard with numerous play structures, a sand box, a garden, play houses, tricycles and coupe cars to drive.
Q: Where do the children play when it is raining?
A: We have access to a large multipurpose room, Mahany Hall with space to run or play with a variety of toys. Children are given the choice of either quiet or high-movement activities.
Q: Do the children go on field trips?
A: Yes, each month the children have some type of special activity. We try new things during the year. We have visited a pumpkin patch in Half Moon Bay, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo in San Jose, and Coyote Point museum. We usually rent a school bus for the day. On alternate months, we have visits from Marine Science, Frankie & Friends, ponies, Wildlife Associates and others.
Q: What types of extra activities are available for the children?
A: At The Children's Place, we provide various opportunities for children to engage in music and sports activities. Our music program is enhanced by the weekly visits of our music teacher, while we offer weekly sports classes for an additional fee. We also hold annual events such as a holiday show, a Thanksgiving potluck luncheon, a Mother's Day tea party, a Father's Day soda party, and participate in the Hometown Days parade in May. Additionally, children are given daily opportunities to participate in activities such as cooking, science, music, and movement.
Q: How much time is spent outside vs. inside?
A: As we are fortunate to have a spacious yard, approximately half of our program takes place outdoors. This provides us with an excellent opportunity to encourage healthy living through play and physical activity. The children are provided with abundant time to play and discover in the outdoor environment, as well as to create and explore in the indoor learning environment.
Q: What is nap time like at The Children's Place?
A: Each child is provided with their own cot, along with a bag for storing their bedding and any special items they may need. Our team wipes down the cots on a weekly basis, while the bedding is sent home for families to wash. Nap time begins after lunch, during which children are required to rest quietly on their cots. Once all the children who need to sleep have drifted off, quiet activities such as reading, drawing, and small manipulatives are allowed. From 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., it's nap time, and at 2:00 p.m. the children who are awake can play outside with our staff. Between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m., children start waking up from their nap.
Q: What is TCP's commitment to the environment?
A: We are THRILLED to share we are a Green Business! TCP is committed to taking action to conserve resources, prevent pollution, and encourage conservation through our every day actions. Kids are sustainability champions they are taught to properly sort their waste and be mindful of their environment. We also use non toxic products to ensure the safety of our children, teachers and environment. TCP is Green Certified by the California Green Business Network.
Q: Why are your tuition rates lower than other licensed child care centers in the area?
Great question! First off, we are a registered non-profit and operate under the guidance of a Board of Directors, and we own our building. When TCP was founded in 1981, the purpose was to provide dual-income families a loving and engaging environment where their children can learn through play. Affordable childcare continues to be a priority for our Board of Directors. Our Board feels strongly that all families should have access to high quality, affordable child care in their community.