A Message from the Christ & Holy Trinity Preschool Director
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Christ & Holy Trinity Preschool.
For over 50 years, CHT has provided a high-quality, play-based early childhood program for families in the Westport area. We are dedicated to offering a learning environment that values the natural curiosity of childhood and reflects the unique interests and abilities of each child. Together we are a community of educators and families with the shared goal of providing a nurturing and enriching preschool experience for young children.
Our philosophy is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and deep respect for each child’s innate desire to understand the world around them and express themselves. We believe each child is an active, capable learner and we provide experiences that promote resilience, efficacy, and cooperation. Our curriculum utilizes the teaching methods of the Project Approach. Our teachers follow the lead of the children as they explore their questions, research, experiment, represent their ideas and reflect on their discoveries. Through these projects children develop and practice the cognitive and social-emotional skills they will need as life-long learners.
We understand and value the importance of providing young children with play-based learning experiences that stimulate a sense of wonder and embrace their social-emotional development. The teachers at CHT are committed to our shared vision of supporting positive connections and individual growth in each child. Our school has the distinction of being accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). We are also a member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) and a treasured ministry of Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. Regardless of a family's faith background or beliefs, all are welcome at CHT.
We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our Christ & Holy Trinity community!
Warmly,
Kate Nelson
About Us
Past
Christ & Holy Trinity Preschool was inaugurated on Ash Wednesday, 1982. While the history of the Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s engagement in early childhood education dates back to 1966, this new beginning marked the onset of many changes that remain at the core of our Preschool today. This includes a weekly Chapel service led by the clergy of the Christ & Holy Trinity Church and a renovation of the Preschool’s historic building with developmentally appropriate facilities. This commitment to create an ideal environment for young minds, while preserving the historic charm of the Seabury Building continues today. For example, the Preschool recently renovated the campus grounds to feature an extensive and custom-designed outdoor play space that provides countless exploration opportunities for our students.
Present
In 2013, Christ & Holy Trinity Preschool had the distinction of being accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) for the fourth time. This prestigious recognition is achieved by fewer than 10 percent of early childhood programs nationwide. Research supports the value of accreditation for children. In particular, children's language skills and social skills benefit from the better quality found in accredited programs. These skills are critical for children's success in life as well as school. In addition, the Preschool is licensed by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood and is a member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools (“NAES”).
