Preschool at Salem

Where learning begins with love. A play-based, Christ-centered start for children as young as 33 months.

Explore. Discover. Grow in Faith.

The early years are precious. At Salem Lutheran School, our private preschool gives young children a safe, nurturing environment where they discover the joy of learning while growing in faith, confidence, and social skills.

 

Our curriculum is play-based and intentional. Every activity is designed to prepare your child for kindergarten while honoring how young children actually learn—through curiosity, exploration, and hands-on discovery.

 

Families across Greenfield, Rockford, Hanover, Corcoran, and Maple Plain choose Salem’s preschool because it is more than childcare. It is a real educational program with experienced teachers, small classes, and a Christ-centered culture from day one.

 
Preschool students having fun in Salem Lutheran School's gymnasium in Greenfield MN

Program Options That Fit Your Family

Salem offers flexible scheduling so you can choose the program that works best for your child and your family.

3-Day Program

Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Available in half-day or full-day. A great fit for families who want a structured introduction to school with time at home in between.

Half-day dismisses at approximately 11:30 AM. Full-day follows the regular school schedule.

5-Day Program

Monday through Friday

Available in half-day or full-day. Ideal for families who want a consistent daily routine and maximum kindergarten readiness.

Half-day dismisses at approximately 11:30 AM. Full-day follows the regular school schedule.

Age Requirements

Children must be 33 months (2 years, 9 months) old by the month of enrollment and be toilet trained. We encourage all incoming preschoolers to complete an Early Childhood Screening before enrolling.

 

Preschool Curriculum

Our curriculum is play-based and developmentally appropriate. We nurture your child’s curiosity while building real skills for kindergarten.

Faith Foundation

Daily devotions, Bible stories, memory work, hymn study, and chapel worship. Students learn who God is and what He has done for them.

Early Math

Numbers, counting, shapes, patterns, sorting, and early problem-solving through play and exploration.

Physical Development

Gross and fine motor skills through playground play, art, music and movement, and structured activities.

Pre-Literacy & Language

Letter recognition, phonics awareness, vocabulary building, and pre-reading skills through stories, songs, and hands-on activities.

Social-Emotional Growth

Learning to share, take turns, express feelings, and build friendships in a supportive Christian community.

Creative Expression

Art, music, dramatic play, and hands-on activities that encourage imagination and self-expression.

Mrs. Charlson preschool teacher at Salem Lutheran School in Greenfield MN

Meet The Teacher

Mrs. Charlson

I have been called to serve in Salem’s preschool classroom since 2013. Since I taught in public schools with a 7th- 12th grade license in social studies, I went back for early childhood classes and ministry certification at Martin Luther College.

Caring for children has been a big part of my life. Teaching in a Christian school is a blessing to see the children grow in all areas especially their faith in their Savior Jesus.

A Day in Preschool

Every day has a rhythm that young children can count on. Here is what a typical preschool day looks like at Salem.

 
 

Arrival

Free play and settling in

Circle time

Devotions, songs, and calendar

Learning time

Centers and hands-on activities

Snack

Snack time together

Active play

Outdoor play or gym time

Story time

Read-alouds and group activities

Creative time

Art or music activities

Afternoon

Rest time (full day) or departure (half day)

Tuition & Enrollment

Salem offers multi-child discounts and member rates for WELS/ELS and Anchored in Christ families. Need-based financial aid is available. Applications are accepted through FACTS beginning February 1.

Preschool FAQs

Common questions from parents exploring private kindergarten options in Greenfield and the surrounding area.

How old does my child need to be to start preschool at Salem?

Children must be 33 months old (2 years, 9 months) by the month of enrollment. They must also be toilet trained. We encourage all families to complete an Early Childhood Screening before enrolling.

What is the difference between your preschool and a daycare?

Salem's preschool is an educational program—not childcare. We follow a structured, play-based curriculum with clear learning goals for literacy, math, social skills, and faith. Your child has a dedicated teacher, a consistent daily schedule, and regular communication about their progress.

 

A daycare focuses on supervision. A private preschool focuses on development and readiness.

Should I choose the 3-day or 5-day program?

It depends on your family. The 3-day program (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) is a great introduction to school for younger children or families who want a lighter schedule. The 5-day program provides more consistency and builds stronger routines for kindergarten readiness.


Both programs offer the same curriculum. Contact us and we can help you decide which fits best.

Is your preschool play-based or academic?

Both. Young children learn best through play, exploration, and hands-on discovery. We use that natural curiosity to build real skills in pre-literacy, math, and social development. Every activity has a purpose—but it feels like fun to your child.

Both programs offer the same curriculum. Contact us and we can help you decide which fits best.

Will this preschool prepare my child for kindergarten?

Yes. Our curriculum is specifically designed to build kindergarten readiness—letter recognition, number sense, fine motor skills, listening, and the social habits children need to succeed in a classroom. Children who attend Salem's preschool transition smoothly into our kindergarten program on the same campus.

What if my child has never been away from home before?

That is completely normal—and our teachers are experienced at helping children through separation anxiety. We use consistent routines, gentle transitions, and warm reassurance. Most children settle in within the first few weeks.


Let us know ahead of time if you expect some difficulty. We will work with you on a plan.

How is faith part of the preschool day?

Every day includes devotions, Bible stories, songs, and prayer. Faith is not a separate lesson—it is woven into how teachers interact with children and how children learn to treat one another. Your child will hear about Jesus in joyful, age-appropriate ways.

Does my child need to be toilet trained?

Yes. Children must be toilet trained before starting at Salem's preschool. Occasional accidents are understood, but children should be independently using the bathroom.

Is before- or after-school care available?

Yes. Salem offers extended care through our SailorCare program for families who need an earlier drop-off or later pick-up. Contact our office for current hours and availability.

Is private preschool worth the cost?

A private preschool offers smaller classes, more personal attention, and a structured curriculum that most free or low-cost options cannot match. At Salem, your child also receives a faith-based education in a safe, nurturing environment with experienced teachers.

 

The habits, confidence, and readiness your child builds in these early years carry into kindergarten and beyond. Many families say the investment shows up for years.

Does Salem offer financial aid for preschool?

Yes. Salem has a need-based financial aid program available for preschool families. Contact our office at (763) 498-7283 or email school@salemwels.org to learn more.

How do I enroll my child?

Applications are accepted through FACTS beginning February 1 for the following school year. There is a $300 enrollment fee due at the time of enrollment (nonrefundable after June 1). We recommend scheduling a tour first so you and your child can see the classroom and meet our teachers.

Come See Where Learning Begins

The best way to know if Salem’s preschool is right for your child is to visit.
Tour the classroom, meet our teachers, and see the environment your child will grow in.