Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Roots Preschool & Childcare

What is Growing Roots?

Growing Roots is a Montessori-inspired preschool and childcare program in Custer, South Dakota. We provide a warm, child-centered environment where children build independence, confidence, social-emotional skills, and a lifelong love of learning.

What ages do you serve?

Growing Roots serves children ages 0-3 in our infant care program and 2.5 to 6 in our preschool and outdoor summer program. 

Is Growing Roots a licensed preschool?

Yes, Growing Roots is a licensed early childhood program in South Dakota, which means our childcare meets state regulations for safety, staffing, health, and quality of care. Licensing ensures regular inspections, background checks for staff, and adherence to standards like staff-to-child ratios and emergency preparedness. 

Is Growing Roots a religious preschool?

No. While we are grateful to our hosts at Custer Lutheran Fellowship, Growing Roots is not affiliated with any faith or denomination. Our programs are open to all families.

Is Growing Roots a nonprofit?

Yes. Growing Roots operates as a 501(c)(3) family foundation, focused on educational programs and outreach. Donations help support scholarships, classroom materials, teacher training, and program growth. Learn more about donations here.

Where is Growing Roots located?

Growing Roots is located in Custer, South Dakota, within the Custer Lutheran Fellowship Building at US-16A, Custer, SD 57730. Our classroom is located five minutes from downtown Custer near Stockade Lake, Custer State Park, and the Black Hills National Forest. This gives children regular opportunities to learn, play, and explore in a peaceful, safe environment connected to the natural world around them.

What programs does Growing Roots offer?

Growing Roots offers preschool and childcare options for ages 2.5 - 6 during the school year, and an outdoor-based summer program for ages 2.5 - 6. Infant care for ages 0-3 year olds is offered as of Fall 2026. 

Our programs combine hands-on classroom learning, outdoor play, social-emotional development, practical life skills, creative exploration, and child-led discovery.

What is the school-year program?

Our school-year program provides preschool and childcare for children ages 2.5 to 6. Families may choose full-day care or morning preschool, with full-week or partial-week options depending on current availability. Enrollment is offered month-to-month, and the program runs from August through May with a consistent rhythm that supports each child’s growth, independence, and love of learning. Learn more about the school year program here.

What is the summer program?

Our summer program gives preschool-aged children a chance to spend their summer learning, playing, and exploring outdoors. The program includes outdoor play, water activities, science activities, arts and crafts, picnics, and other hands-on learning experiences. Enrollment is offered month-to-month, and the program typically runs from late May through August. Learn more about the summer program here.

What is the 0-3 program?

Our future 0–3 program will provide Montessori-based care for infants and toddlers in a calm, nurturing environment designed for their earliest stages of growth. This classroom will support independence, movement, language development, sensory exploration, and respectful care routines. Growing Roots is currently preparing for this program, with plans to launch in Fall 2026.

Do you offer full-day and half-day options?

Yes. Growing Roots offers full-day care and morning preschool and summer care options. Availability may vary by program, schedule, and classroom capacity. See all options on the preschool and summer program pages.

Can families choose partial week enrollment?

Yes. Families may choose 2, 3, or 5 days per week for preschool, depending on availability. Specific day combinations are determined with each family based on the child’s needs, family schedule, and classroom capacity. Learn more about the preschool schedule options here.

Can my child attend different days each week?

No. Children need a consistent weekly schedule. This helps children settle into the classroom rhythm, build relationships, and know what to expect.

How do I enroll my child?

Families can start by completing the interest form on our website. After we receive your form, we will follow up about availability, scheduling options, scholarships, and next steps.

Do you have a waitlist?

Sometimes! When a program or schedule option is full, families may be placed on a waitlist. We encourage families to fill out the interest form  early so we can understand your needs and follow up when space becomes available.

Can we tour the school before enrolling?

Yes. We welcome families to learn more and ask questions before enrolling. Please contact us to ask about tour opportunities and availability.

How much does Growing Roots cost?

Tuition depends on the program, schedule, and whether your child attends full-day care or morning preschool. Current tuition information is available on our program pages.

Do you charge an enrollment fee?

Yes. There is a one-time, non-refundable $20 enrollment fee due at the time of enrollment.

Is there a multi-child discount available?

Yes, a multi-child discount may be available for families enrolling more than one child. Please contact Growing Roots directly for current discount details and availability.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. Tuition assistance and scholarships are available for families who need financial support. We believe cost should not be the only reason a child misses out on early learning, and we encourage families to ask about scholarship options. Please fill out an interest form to apply for a scholarship/tuition assistance.

Who qualifies for scholarships and tuition assistance?

Scholarships are available for families who may need help with tuition for our Montessori-inspired preschool or summer childcare programs. Families do not need to meet state income limits or complete the same paperwork required for programs like SNAP in order to apply for tuition assistance.

Growing Roots reviews scholarship/tuition assistance requests discreetly and on a case-by-case basis through a simple, respectful process. Tuition assistance/scholarships are open to all families in Custer and surrounding Black Hills communities who could use financial support to make care more accessible. 

How do I apply for a scholarship/tuition assistance?

Families can complete the scholarship interest form on our website. After we receive your form, our administrator will follow up with next steps. All scholarship/tuition assistance requests are handled discreetly and respectfully.

Do you accept mid-year registration for preschool? 

Yes, if spaces are available. Please fill out an interest form and we will contact you regarding availability for your child.

Are donations accepted?

Yes. Donations help Growing Roots provide scholarships, classroom materials, teacher training, and continued program growth. Donations can be made through our secure online donation platform, Zeffy, or by cash, check, or mail. See our donations page for more information.

Why does the donation page use Zeffy?

Zeffy is the online fundraising platform we use to securely collect donations for Growing Roots.

What are your daily hours?

Growing Roots offers full-day and morning preschool schedules, Monday through Friday during workday hours. Current hours are listed on our program pages, and families will receive specific drop-off and pick-up information as part of enrollment. We do not offer weekend or night care.

What does a typical preschool day look like? 

A typical school year preschool day at Growing Roots looks may look like:

7:30 – 8:00 am: Children arrive

8:00 – 11:00 am: Morning work period

11:00 – 11:40 am: Lunch & clean up

11:45 – 12:30 pm: Outdoor time and pick up for half-day children @ 12:00pm

12:00 pm: Pick up for half day children

12:45 – 2:30 pm: Quiet time (naps or quiet activities)

2:45 – 3:00 pm: Afternoon snack

3:00 – 4:00 pm: Afternoon work period

4:00 – 5:00 pm: Outdoor time and pick up for full-day children

What does drop-off look like?

Drop-off is designed to be calm, consistent, and welcoming. Families check children in through the Brightwheel app each day.

During the school-year program, drop-off takes place at the classroom door. During the summer program, drop-off typically takes place outside in the outdoor classroom. Teachers support each child as they settle into the day, and keeping drop-off consistent helps children build confidence and begin with a predictable routine.

Families will receive more detailed drop-off information during enrollment and orientation.

What does pick-up look like?

At pick-up, children are released only to approved adults listed by the family. Families check children out through the Brightwheel app and are welcome to connect with the lead or assistant teacher at pick-up to hear highlights from their child’s day.

Pick-up usually takes place outside, unless children are indoors for preschool activities, inclement weather, very hot weather, or other program needs. Families should arrive during the designated pick-up window and communicate with staff if plans change.

What should my child bring each day?

Children should bring weather-appropriate clothing, outdoor gear, clean indoor shoes, a water bottle, and any required lunch or snack items. Families will receive a list of what to bring (and not to bring) to school during enrollment.

Do children need outdoor clothing every day?

Yes. Outdoor learning and outdoor play are important parts of our program, so children should come prepared for the weather each day.

Please keep in mind that weather at Growing Roots may be different from surrounding areas. Because of our location near the forest and hillside, we may have more shade, snow, mud, cooler temperatures, or changing conditions than families experience at home. Weather-appropriate clothing helps children comfortably and safely participate in outdoor activities.

Are lunches or snacks provided? 

For our preschool program, children bring their own lunch and an afternoon snack if they stay for the full day. Morning snack is provided by preschool families on a rotating schedule, with each family typically assigned two days per month to bring snack for the class.

For our summer program, children bring their own lunch and any morning or afternoon snacks they will need for the day.

Please note: Growing Roots is a peanut-free school.

What if my child has food allergies?

Please share all allergy information during enrollment. We are a peanut-free school, and food allergies are taken very seriously. We work with families to understand each child’s needs and create a safe plan for the classroom.

What does Montessori-inspired mean?

Montessori-inspired means we value independence, hands-on learning, mixed-age community, practical life skills, child-led discovery, and respect for each child’s pace of development. Our classrooms are designed to help children build confidence, focus, responsibility, and care for themselves, others, and their environment.

What is the Growing Roots classroom like?

Our Montessori-inspired classroom is calm, peaceful, and filled with natural light, wooden materials, and child-sized spaces designed to support independence. Children work with Montessori-inspired materials such as the Pink Tower, Golden Beads, Geometric Solids, bead chains, matching cards, classification work, puzzles, Moveable Alphabet, and sound baskets.

These materials help children explore early math, language, reading, sensory learning, problem-solving, focus, and coordination through hands-on work. The classroom also includes a small kitchen area, child-accessible bathrooms, an entry space for coats and shoes, and tools that allow children to care for themselves, help others, and contribute to the classroom community.

Will my child be ready for kindergarten?

Our goal is to support the whole child. Children build early academic foundations along with independence, social-emotional skills, communication, problem-solving, focus, and confidence. These skills help children grow as learners and prepare for future school experiences.

Do children learn letters, numbers, reading, and writing?

Yes, children are introduced to early literacy and math concepts through hands-on, developmentally appropriate learning. This may include stories, songs, conversation, practical life work, counting, sorting, patterns, fine motor activities, and early writing experiences.

Why Montessori?

In a Montessori-inspired classroom, children are introduced to letters, numbers, colors, and other traditional subjects - but in a hands-on, experiential way. Instead of memorizing facts through worksheets or drills, children explore carefully designed materials that make abstract concepts concrete. For example, they might build words with moveable letters, explore math with counting beads, or sort objects by color and shape.

This approach allows children to progress at their own pace while developing not only academic skills, but also problem-solving, independence, and a genuine love of learning. The goal is for children to gain a deep understanding of concepts rather than just reciting information, preparing them with both the knowledge and confidence they’ll need for future schooling.

What is the teacher to child ratio?

Growing Roots follows South Dakota childcare licensing requirements for teacher-to-child ratios. Current state ratios are 1 staff member for every 5 children up to age 3, 1 staff member for every 10 children ages 3–4, and 1 staff member for every 15 children ages 5 and older. Ratios may vary slightly in mixed-age groups, but children are supervised according to state licensing requirements at all times.

Why are parents asked to say goodbye at the classroom door?

Our classrooms are designed to help children transition into their day with confidence and independence. Saying goodbye at the classroom door helps minimize distractions and allows teachers to welcome each child into the classroom in a calm, consistent way. While transitions can sometimes be emotional, children typically settle more quickly when drop-off routines are predictable and brief.

How does Growing Roots deal with conflict resolution? 

Conflict is a natural part of social development, and we view it as an opportunity for children to practice communication, empathy, and problem-solving. Our teachers step in when safety is at risk, but whenever possible, we support children in using their words, listening to one another, and working through disagreements respectfully.

Our staff use approaches rooted in Montessori, Positive Discipline, and Conscious Discipline. This may include calm adult support, conversation modeling, centering breaks, deep breaths, and help naming emotions. Our goal is not to punish children for having big feelings, but to help them build the skills they need to feel safe, stay regulated, and participate in community with confidence.

Are children separated by age?

Growing Roots uses a mixed-age classroom model. Younger children learn by observing older children, and older children build confidence and leadership by helping younger classmates.

Why do teachers let children struggle with certain tasks?

At Growing Roots, we believe children build confidence by doing things for themselves. Our teachers practice “assuming competence,” which means we trust that children are capable of learning, trying, problem-solving, and contributing in meaningful ways, even when the process takes time or looks imperfect.

Teachers thoughtfully encourage children to practice everyday skills such as putting on coats, dressing themselves, carrying their belongings, cleaning up, and solving age-appropriate problems before stepping in to help.

This means you may occasionally see a shirt on backwards, shoes on the wrong feet, or clothing that isn't perfectly matched. As long as a child is safe and comfortable, these small imperfections are viewed as valuable learning opportunities that help build independence, perseverance, and self-confidence.

How do you handle naps/quiet time?

Children have a quiet rest time each afternoon. Each child rests on their own cot with dimmed lights, calming music, and any approved comfort items from home, such as a blanket, pillow, or stuffed animal.

Many children fall asleep during this time, while others simply rest quietly on their cot. The goal is to give every child a calm reset in the middle of the day, whether they sleep or not.

How much outdoor time do children get?

Outdoor learning and outdoor play are part of the Growing Roots experience. Children spend time outside regularly, weather permitting, and explore the natural world through play, observation, movement, and hands-on discovery.

What is the outdoor space like?

Growing Roots has a large, fenced outdoor space adjacent to the Black Hills National Forest designed for safe, hands-on exploration and nature-based play. The area includes natural Black Hills materials such as Ponderosa pine trees, pine cones, logs, stumps, granite rocks, and plenty of open space for movement, along with Montessori-inspired play areas like a mud kitchen, music station, fort-building materials, wooden climbing and stepping elements, tools, and running water for water play.

The outdoor space is tucked behind the church, sheltered from much of the wind, and located less than 50 feet from the classroom door. This makes it easy for children to move safely between the classroom and outdoor area, while still having access to the restroom and indoor space as needed.

What if there is bad weather?

We believe there’s no such thing as bad weather - only bad clothing! Children go outside every day unless conditions are dangerous (e.g. extreme cold, lightning, high winds). Outdoor play in various weather builds resilience, boosts mood, and connects children more deeply to the natural world. We provide guidance on seasonal gear to keep your child warm, dry, and comfortable.

What kinds of outdoor activities do children do?

Children may play in the mud kitchen, explore nature, observe plants and insects, build with natural materials, run, climb, dig, create, and work together outdoors. Outdoor play supports physical development, imagination, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth.

What if my child gets dirty?

Getting dirty is part of childhood and part of outdoor learning. We encourage families to send clothing and shoes that can handle mud, water, paint, and play, as well as an extra pair of dry clothes in case your child needs to change.

What are the benefits of outdoor play?

Outdoor play is essential to a child’s development. Playing in mud, snow, and natural elements supports motor skills, emotional regulation, creativity, and problem-solving. We also see increased cooperation and focus after outdoor time. Yes, they may get dirty—but they’re building brains, bodies, and resilience while doing it.

Risky play (like running with a stick or exploring rocks and sand) helps children develop critical thinking, balance, and boundaries. We supervise closely and teach safe use of materials. Instead of saying “don’t,” we guide them to think: “Is this safe for me and for others?” This builds long-term self-regulation and confidence.

What should my child wear for outdoor activities?

Children should come dressed for active, messy, outdoor play. We recommend comfortable clothing that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes that are safe for running and climbing, and weather-appropriate layers.

Families should also keep a full extra set of clothes in their child’s bag, including underwear, socks, pants, and a shirt. Seasonal gear may also be needed throughout the year, such as a jacket, hat, mittens, snow pants, rain boots, or sun hat. Growing Roots will provide guidance so children are prepared to play safely and comfortably outdoors.

My child has special needs. Can they attend Growing Roots?

We welcome families to reach out and share more about their child’s needs, strengths, and goals. Enrollment and support needs are reviewed on a case-by-case basis so we can thoughtfully consider what is best for the child, the family’s goals, and the safety and needs of the classroom community. Our goal is to approach these conversations with care, respect, and honesty so families can make the best decision for their child.

Is my child safe at Growing Roots?

Safety is a top priority at Growing Roots. Teachers supervise children closely, set clear boundaries, and create predictable routines that help children feel secure throughout the day.

Our school has safety measures in place, including fenced outdoor areas, door locks, approved pick-up procedures, and required check-in and check-out through the Brightwheel app. Teachers and staff use Brightwheel to closely document attendance, communication, and important updates so families and staff stay informed.

Growing Roots teachers maintain current First Aid and CPR certification and complete required safety trainings, including fire drills, emergency procedures, and preparedness practices. Our team takes safety planning seriously and works to create a calm, prepared environment for children, staff, and families. Families will receive more information about safety procedures during enrollment.

When do you close school?

Growing Roots typically follows the Custer Elementary school closure schedule for major breaks and weather-related closures. We may also close for additional holidays, staff development days, or program-specific needs.

Families will receive an annual calendar with planned closures, and any unexpected closures will be communicated as soon as possible.

How does Growing Roots communicate with parents? Will I get updates about my child throughout the day?

Growing Roots uses the Brightwheel app for daily communication, including child check-in and check-out, classroom updates, and messages to families throughout the day. Families also receive email newsletters with classroom happenings, upcoming events, and important reminders.

Parent-teacher conferences are offered at scheduled points throughout the year, and families are always welcome to request a meeting if they would like to talk more about their child’s needs, development, or experience at Growing Roots.

Do all teachers have a background check?

Yes. All Growing Roots teachers and staff complete required background checks before working with children. This is part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy environment for every child in our care.

How do teachers support big feelings or challenging behavior?

Young children are still learning how to name feelings, communicate needs, solve problems, and work through conflict. Teachers support children with calm guidance, clear expectations, connection, and developmentally appropriate tools for self-regulation.

We also invite parents to participate in parenting workshops and classroom observations to better understand our approach and learn tools that can support consistency between home and school.

What happens if my child is sick?

Families should keep children home when they are sick. If a child becomes sick while at school, teachers will contact the child’s parent or guardian using the contact information provided during enrollment. If a parent or guardian cannot be reached, teachers may contact the family’s listed secondary or emergency contact.

Specific illness policies, including when a child may return to school, will be shared during enrollment and may be updated based on current health guidance.

What do you mean by “potty-trained”?  

Your child wears underwear and is aware of their body's signals to stop playing and go to the bathroom, most of the time. Your child is mostly independent in the bathroom and can undress and dress themselves as needed. We understand that accidents happen and encourage each child to change their clothes and clean themselves if an accident occurs. We want your child to be comfortable asking for help in the bathroom if needed. Pull ups are ok at naptime. We understand that all children sleep differently and some children do not wake up to their body sensations and may still have accidents while they are sleeping.

How will I know what my child is doing during the day?

Growing Roots values thoughtful, consistent communication with families. Teachers and staff use the Brightwheel app to share updates, reminders, and important information so families can stay connected to their child’s experience at school.

Our teachers are also deeply focused on being present with the children throughout the day, so updates and photos may vary depending on the rhythm of the classroom. Families are always welcome to check in with the lead or assistant teacher at pick-up to hear more about their child’s day.

Children follow a consistent daily rhythm so they know what to expect, while still having opportunities to explore new classroom materials, seasonal activities, outdoor experiences, and hands-on learning throughout the week.  

Who can pick up my child?

Only approved adults listed by the family may pick up a child from Growing Roots. Families will provide this information in their enrollment paperwork and should notify staff in advance if someone different will be picking up.

All pick-ups and drop-offs must be completed through the Brightwheel app, and staff will only release children to approved adults.

Can I observe or volunteer in my child's classroom?

Yes. Growing Roots values family involvement and offers scheduled classroom observation days throughout the school year for parents who would like to see the classroom environment in action. Parents may also have opportunities to observe when helping with specific classroom events or activities.

To help maintain a calm, consistent environment for the children, all classroom observations and volunteer opportunities should be arranged in advance with our director.

Who teaches at Growing Roots?

Growing Roots teachers and staff are caring adults who value children, families, and early childhood education. Our team supports children through warmth, structure, curiosity, and respect. Learn more about our staff here.

Are you hiring?

Growing Roots is often looking for caring, responsible people who enjoy working with children. Current openings are listed on our Employment page.

How can I support Growing Roots?

Families and community members can support Growing Roots by donating, sharing your time and talents with our community, sharing our programs with other families, attending events, volunteering when opportunities are available, and helping us grow access to early learning in Custer.