Time for Tots was developed by Mrs. Kari Hahm, the music teacher, and Mrs. Beth Gross, the preschool teacher, at Zion Lutheran in Hartland, to facilitate families as they raise their children to be ready for their walk of life with Jesus.

Time for Tots is led by Mrs. Sarah Hahm and Mrs. Stephanie Lesniewski, with support and help from Mrs. Beth Gross, the preschool teacher. The purpose of Time for Tots is to help families as they raise their children to be ready for their walk of life with Jesus. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)

Time for Tots features a series of Bible stories that hold close to God’s Word, the words of the Bible, while communicating in a way that little children can understand. These stories, adapted from Scripture by Pastor Steenbock, are taught to the kids during the program. In addition, you will receive every story as a little book to take home and read together with your child afterward.

Zion loves programs that involve BOTH the grown-ups and the child. They want to strengthen your relationship with Jesus AND your child. They want to give you experiences you can share together whether you are mom, dad, grandparent, nanny – all caregivers!

When is Time for Tots?

9:00 – 9:30 a.m. is spent as free play in the preschool classroom. Adults enjoy coffee and conversation as they watch the kiddos play. The intent is to give you support with other adults who are going through the same situations you are. The children then have opportunities to socialize with kids their own age. Babies and Toddlers have not reached the developmental stage of cooperative play. They still play alongside (parallel play) other children. But they are fascinated to watch any child around them. Children aged 2 ½ – 5 are eager for friends to interact with.

9:30 – 10:00 a.m. is the structured time of the morning. The adults and children snuggle up together for the Circle Time which includes songs and stories centered around the Bible. Zion loves kids! They know that sitting still is not often on their agenda. They plan for that.
Everyone then shares a snack that the staff often try to match the theme of the lesson. Think adorable food. Finally they create art that the kids can bring home to reflect on what they learned as well as share with every single person they know.

10:00 – 10:10 a.m. we get our bodies moving with active memorization! Over the course of the semester the kids get their bodies moving pairing actions along with words of wisdom and truth from God’s Word such as the Lord’s Prayer or Bible passages. Over the course of the semester, your child will learn precious memory treasures from the BIble.

10:10 – 10:30 a.m. we get to RUN! Zion is blessed with a playground specifically designed for early childhood. They also have a gleaming gym filled with a variety of age appropriate toys. They’d love nothing more than to send you home with a child who cannot wait for their nap.

10:30am Time for Tots comes to a close for the day, but don’t forget to take home your child’s craft and a copy of the day’s Bible story. Let friends and family know what a great time you had. New attendees are always welcome throughout the year!

Related:

Local Preschool Guide

Moms Groups and Play Groups Guide