Camp Registration Open at St. Francis

Attention campers — don your shorts and shades and head for the Saint Francis of Assisi playground! The Saint Francis Preschool Camp will open its doors to all community three-, four- and five-year-olds (not just current students) on Tuesday, May 31.

When most area preschools end in spring, parents seek to keep toddlers busy while their school-age children are still in session. A wonderful option is the fun-filled, 3-week camp at , located in the heart of Weston at 35 Norfield Road.

The 2011 Summer Camp is held from 9 to 1 p.m., has three sessions and kicks off Memorial Day week (a four-day week due to the holiday).

Session 1 spans May 31 through June 3, Session 2 is June 6  through June 10, and the camp ends with Session 3 taking place from June 13 through 17.

Tuition for each session is $129, with a $75 deposit (needed to secure your camper’s spot), which will be applied to the tuition. Camp activities include water and outdoor play, games and crafts and a nut-free snack is provided. Summer Camp registration forms are available at the Preschool or via the parish website. Registration for fall classes is also open. Those interested should contact school director, Eleanor Moore, at 203.454.8646 or emoore@sfaparish.com.

Saint Francis of Assisi Preschool was founded in 1999 and is one of Fairfield County’s only Catholic preschool programs. The school is accredited by the State of Connecticut and its philosophy centers around both play and age-appropriate academics. In addition, the preschool regularly uses an educational consultant and publishes lesson plans for parents’ review. Though parish-run, children of all denominations attend.

The St. Francis of Assisi Preschool was the brainchild of former pastor, Monsignor Nicholas Grieco, whose passion for education spurred him to erect a parish preschool. The current pastor, Father Michael Dunn, visits the 3s and 4s weekly and ensures the school mission — caring for children’s growth and development in a nurturing, Catholic environment — continues.

“Our preschool is an integral part of the parish. It not only provides the academics that are stepping stones for kindergarten, but nurtures the children’s faith life and fosters self-discovery and a respect for others,” said Dunn.

Director Eleanor Moore, who has been on campus for five years, has sought to broaden the curriculum during her tenure, specifically with the addition of technology, foreign language, and social science instruction. Formerly on staff at The Convent of the Sacred Heart in Greenwich, Moore wanted to instill much in her young students.

“It is of utmost importance to develop the whole child — academically, spiritually, emotionally, and physically — and that they leave well-rounded and prepared for the years ahead," Moore said. “I’ve also tried to instill a sense of helping others in our students."

To register for the Saint Francis of Assisi Summer Camp or year-round Preschool program, visit the school or call 203.454.8646.