The first day of school is legendary for causing jitters for
 parents - and occassionally for kids too. It's a big day in the lives of both parents and kids, one that is photographed and remembered for years. Who hasn't known (or been) that parent who lingers outside the preschool door, hesitate to leave because, well, what if my toddler needs me?
Easing into the school environment can help. And The Magic House has a new program designed to do just that. My First School is for kids who are 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 years old that introduces them to a classroom setting and gives kids the opportunity to learn how to build relationships with teachers and their peers.
My First School, said Sara Kahre of The Magic House, is a fun and creative preschool "prep" class for kids who are ready to go to school - almost. "The My First School program encourages gradual independence within a nurturing environment to get children - and parents - ready for that next big step," Kahre added.
The nine-week program begins with six weeks of parent-child classes. During these weeks, children build relationships with teachers and the other children in the class while learning basic skills. Parents are there to support and encourage their child's independence in the classroom. In the final three weeks, parents spend free time outside of the classroom while children go to "school" all by themselves.
My First School takes place once a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. or 11 a.m. to noon. Classes begin the week of September 20 and continue through the week of November 17.
The cost for the program is $100 for members and $135 for non-members. Parents who are ready to take that next step can visit The Magic House website for more information or call 314-822-8900 to enroll in the program.
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!
Bring your babies and toddlers to this free story time at the Missouri History Museum.
Storytelling in the Museum is an in-person storytelling event happening at 10:30 a.m. at the Missouri History Museum. This event, perfect for the preschool set, features engaging stories with themes like Juneteenth, Sweet Treats, Summer and more. Storytelling in the Museum is free.
Do you need a creative activity for your kids on a day when school's out? Yucandu Art Studio offers No-School Workshops for kids in grades kindergarten through 5th.
Upper Limits Single Day Camps are a great way to keep your kids active and engage when school is out. Single-day rock climbing camps are for ages 7 -15 and are held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Upper Limits locations in Chesterfield and Maryland Heights.