At Washington Street Preschool, we believe childhood should be a time of wonder, joy, and discovery. We are committed to offering a high-quality half-day program enriched with meaningful experiences that support the growth and development of the whole child. Through engaging activities and thoughtful enrichment, we create a nurturing environment where children can learn, explore, and thrive.
Regular Enrichment Opportunities Include
Extended Day/Lunch Bunch
Our Lunch Bunch program is available to preschoolers aged 3 and up. On designated days, children bring their lunch and stay at school until 2:00 PM. This extended day offers a valuable opportunity for additional peer interaction and helps ease the transition to Kindergarten by providing a longer day in a familiar setting. Lunch Bunch will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays during the 2025–2026 school year.
Music and Movement Class
Each week, we welcome Ms. Abby into our classrooms for an engaging Music & Movement class. Children sing, dance, and explore rhythm through instruments, while also learning some basic sign language, breathing techniques, and introductory yoga—all designed to support physical coordination and emotional regulation.
Science Seed
Twice a month, a certified instructor from the Science Seed program visits our school to lead hands-on science lessons. Children dive into rotating topics with age-appropriate experiments that spark curiosity and foster scientific thinking.
Spanish
Our preschoolers enjoy twice-monthly Spanish lessons that introduce basic Spanish vocabulary, songs, and phrases through fun, interactive, and age-appropriate activities.
Chapel
To support spiritual growth, the preschool holds Chapel on a monthly basis. Chapel consists of age appropriate stories and songs.
Additional Enrichment Opportunities Include
Special Events
Throughout the year, we partner with local organizations to provide enriching experiences that broaden our students’ horizons. This year, our children have enjoyed visits from a local nature center, the Glen Echo Aquarium, the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, and a delightful puppet show—just to name a few!
Walking Field Trips
Our Owls class takes regular chaperoned walks to the Barrett Branch Library on Queen Street. We also incorporate local excursions in Old Town Alexandria to support our theme units—such as mailing Valentines at the post office or exploring the Prince Street Fire Station. These neighborhood adventures make learning come alive!
Hatch-a-Chick Unit
A perennial favorite! Each spring, all classes participate in the Hatch-a-Chick program with eggs and an incubator provided by Three Bags Wool Farm in Purcellville. Students observe the full life cycle of a chick—from egg to hatchling—right in the classroom. After a week of caring for the chicks, they return to the farm to continue growing.
Community Outreach
As part of our mission to learn to live lovingly, we participate in a variety of outreach efforts throughout the year. Programs include our Book Drive, Christmas Giving Tree, and other seasonal initiatives that invite children and families to give back to the community in meaningful ways.