Frequently Asked Questions
What does outside time look like?
When the weather is especially beautiful, we love extending our time outside to soak it all in. On extra-hot Texas days, we monitor children closely, offer plenty of water breaks and adjust outdoor time as needed to keep everyone comfortable and safe. Our playground is separated into two, safe, enclosed areas (the younger and the older playground). Both areas are designed for exploration, imagination and growth.
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The younger playground (under 2 1/2 yrs) features age-appropriate climbing structures, ride-on toys, and open-ended materials that inspire creativity and sensory play.
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The older playground (ages 2 1/2 and older) offers larger climbing structures, pretend-play buses, a basketball hoop, blacktop area for games, and plenty of shade from our beautiful native oak trees.
Every outdoor moment is an opportunity for children to move, imagine, and connect because learning happens just as much under the sun as it does inside the classroom!
What are the disciplinary guidelines?
First and foremost, our utmost commitment is to keep all of our students safe and comfortable at all times. At Rising Stars, we guide children with kindness, patience, and understanding. We begin with clear, consistent expectations and gentle reminders, helping children understand acceptable behavior through modeling, redirection, and conversation. Our teachers use positive guidance to help little ones learn self-control, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
When missteps occur, teachers support the child in recognizing feelings, exploring alternative actions, and restoring relationships - rather than shaming or isolating them. We focus on redirection, clear expectations, and meaningful conversations that help children understand their feelings and make better choices. Children remain supervised and supported at all times, and any "pause" or "calming break" is brief, safe, respectful, and with staff present. If a behavior becomes persistent or potentially unsafe, we partner with families to develop a tailored and coordinated plan that we can implement together at home and at school for greater success.
We see challenging behavior as an opportunity to teach - not to punish. With caring guidance, we help children become emotionally aware, responsible, and kind - in the classroom and beyond.
Are there snacks given out?
A busy day of learning and play calls for nutritious fuel! We ask that parents pack at least ONE snack per day for half-day students and TWO snacks per day for full-day students. ​We encourage balanced, wholesome options that combine a protein and a carbohydrate to keep little bodies energized and focused such as yogurt with fruit, cheese and pretzels, or a bagel with cream cheese.
What sleep aides can be brought in?
Rest time is a valued part of our daily rhythm - an opportunity for children to pause, recharge and reset after a busy morning. Child licensing requires that we provide a scheduled time in our day for napping and quiet time. While not every child will fall asleep, all children benefit from moments of calm, quiet, and stillness.
​To support a peaceful environment, we slow the pace before rest begins: lights are dimmed, voices soften, and soothing music or gentle transitions help children feel settled. For those who don't nap, we provide quiet, independent activities such as books or puzzles so everyone can rest respectfully. Lovies and pacifiers are welcome for comfort, especially for our younger students. As children grow, we gently guide them toward greater independence and self-soothing, while honoring each child's readiness. We use individual mats, spaced and sanitized daily, while parents supply a blanket to cover the mat and another to cover their child. Families may choose to send a nap roll or a crib sheet and blanket set - whichever feels most comfortable for your little one.
What is the outside toy policy?
We ask that children not bring toys from home (except approved comfort items) to keep things fair, safe, and focused on learning. When children bring favorite toys, it can lead to conflict over sharing, hurt feelings, and distractions from classroom materials. Additionally, home toys are more likely to be lost, broken, or carry germs — and managing many personal items can complicate our classroom routines. This policy helps us maintain an inclusive, peaceful play environment where children engage with shared materials and build social skills together.
What to bring on the first day?
Backpack, Water Bottle, Snacks, Lunch, Change of Clothes, Diapers/Wipes/Cream, Rest Time Items, Comfort Items (lovies, pacifier, family picture)
