FAQs

Is Acorn Tree a Waldorf preschool?

Acorn Tree is Waldorf-inspired and the teacher, Allison Ruby, is an experienced Waldorf teacher, however its activities and materials are not exclusively Waldorf. Allison considers her experience and training in Waldorf education as a foundation and structure on which to build, and that they provide a window into the inner life of children, without being a roof or wall that contains or limits her approach to meeting the interests and needs of the children in her care.

Does Acorn Tree offer part time or afterschool care?

Acorn Tree's focus is on providing a quality preschool program for families in need of full time care for their children. However, a three day a week program (T/W/Th) is now being offered to a limited number of families. Children enrolled part time come Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Alternative part-time schedules and afterschool care are not available at this time.

What are Acorn Tree’s hours?

Children arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 in the morning. Parents usually arrive for pick up between 4:45 and 5:00.

How old must my child be to enroll?

Children must be at least 33 months and toilet independent.

What does “toilet independent” mean and why do you require it?

Toilet independent means your child wears cloth underwear during the day without having frequent accidents, can recognize and communicate the need to go to the bathroom, and is able to independently use the toilet and wash hands. Of course all children are supervised and assisted as needed. Toilet independence is a developmental milestone that generally goes hand in hand with readiness for the overall structure and activities of the program, and allows the group to move through the day with a more consistent rhythm.

Do children watch TV or have other screen time during the day?

TV, videos, and computer activities are not part of the Acorn Tree day. Children are actively engaged in the world, their teacher, and one another even during more quiet, restful, and inward periods of the day. Cartoons and pop culture references are generally deemphasized in this program.

Do children play outside during the day?

Yes! Abundant outside play is part of the daily routine year round and in all but the most inclement weather.

Are meals and snacks provided?

Yes, Acorn Tree provides a substantial morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack. Children eat breakfast at home. Meals are homemade and high in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. We know that a healthful and varied diet supports children's physical health, brain development and immune systems, and is a needed foundation for active play and learning.

Does Acorn Tree participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)?

We have chosen not to participate in CACFP at this time, but our meals and snacks meet or exceed this program's nutritional guidelines.

Why is tuition paid monthly? Are other payment schedules available?

Acorn Tree has chosen a monthly payment structure as a way to streamline and simplify budgeting and administrative tasks, while providing a solid financial foundation for the program and teacher. Consistent tuition payments allow the cost of childcare to be spread out evenly over the year, making it easier for families to plan their family budget. Alternative payment schedules are not available.

Is tuition pro-rated if my child is sick or we go on vacation?

No, tuition at Acorn Tree is based on enrollment, not attendance. Illness and vacations do not affect monthly tuition.

What methods of payment do you accept?

All invoicing and payments are made via Brightwheel, which allows parents to make secure payments online and print out statements for tax and financial records. Parents create a Brightwheel account as part of the enrollment process. Other methods of payment are not accepted at this time.

How is Acorn Tree licensed?

Acorn Tree Child Garden is licensed by the State of Minnesota as a Class A Family Childcare. A Class A license allows up to ten children total, with six of them preschool age.