A Home Away from Home
The Greenhill Extended Day Program is designed to be a home away from home for students whose parents work during the day.  Skilled and caring staff members create a safe and secure atmosphere for children.  Students in all groups have the freedom to choose activities directed by creative staff members or to spend quiet time by themselves.  Although they will be divided into four age groups, children can play with older or younger friends in much the same way they would play with friends in their neighborhood.

Children's Choice: A neighborhood Concept
Extended Day allows children to choose from a rich variety of activities, but it does not require them to participate.  We create a neighborhood environment in which children can flow from one activity to another in an informal setting or take time out just to look at the clouds or watch a bug in the grass. Children can visit with a friend, care for a pet, or make an invention in the carpentry area. Every Friday, the children are treated to a movie and a special snack.

A Philosophy of Play
Our increasingly complex and fast-paced society leaves little time for children's spontaneous play.  Yet increasing evidence shows that spontaneous play is crucial to a child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.  Extended Day allows a child to make choices in play at his or her own pace.  As you enter Extended Day, you will see that our environment supports our belief that we value children's play, not just for its stimulation or cognitive skills and problem solving, but because play is what makes children human.

Philosophy of Supervision
The Extended Day Program is a supportive and informal setting for children: it is not a continuation of school.  Discipline is based on an understanding of the individual needs and the development of a child. It is directed toward teaching a child acceptable behavior. Staff members will teach children to respect the rights of others and re-channel aggressive behavior. Should a child refuse to follow these guidelines, Extended Day reserves the right to remove the child from the program immediately.

Staff
We choose skilled staff members who can create a secure setting for children.  Our directors are trained and degreed professionals in Early Childhood Education and bring creative energy to their jobs.  We stay in close contact with parents in the event of family changes or individual concerns.

Parent Communication
Extended Day maintains frequent communication with parents by newsletter and announcements throughout the year.  We encourage parents to let us know how we are doing and what we can do to improve our program. You may reach the Extended Day office by calling (972)-628-5600.

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten
Pre-K and Kindergarten Extended Day is a developmentally appropriate play space for young children.  We understand that children develop best through activities that capture their interest.  Centers are designed with materials that are interesting to young children.  Blocks, painting, books, dress-up clothes, and science materials found in nature are enticing to young children and provide a focus for their learning.  We understand the importance of creating an environment in which children can make discoveries, solve problems, and think independently.   

Lower School
Lower School children have two areas of Extended Day that they can call their own.  Primer through Second Grade are located in one classroom, while third and fourth grade are located in another.  Inside, one can read a book or play a game with a friend.  Each day an art activity is planned.  Outside, there is a large playground to kick a soccer ball, play football, play basketball, or engage in imaginative play.  Throughout the year, special activities such as cooking, science and thematic programs are planned for the children.

Middle School
Middle School students will stay in the Middle School Rotunda for Extended Day.  They will be able to meet with friends inside or out, and play games, complete art activities, or participate in special activities planned daily.  A study hall is provided for children who would like to complete their homework before going home.

Study Hall
A study hall is available to students in Primer – 8th grades, Monday through Thursday.  Attendance will not be enforced by the Extended Day Staff.  However, we would be glad to visit with families and help encourage or set-up study plans for students who may need it.