Program Overview

MDO's programs are open to any child between the ages of 6 months and 5 years as of September 1.

  • Babies (6-12 months by Sept. 1)

  • Ones (1 year old by Sept. 1)

  • Twos (2 years old by Sept. 1)

  • Threes (3 years old by Sept. 1)

  • Pre-K (4 years old by Sept.1)

School hours are: 9 AM - 1 PM, Monday-Friday.
We adhere to the Dekalb County school calendar for the regular school year.

Our Curriculum

We are committed to the philosophy that children learn best through play and discovery.  Our program is rich in music, art, creative expression, gardening, and a variety of sensory experiences. Enrichment is woven into each day, creating the fabric of the school week. In addition, the learning experience is enhanced by our weekly music class and yoga class along with special visits from storytellers, performers, and community helpers at no extra cost. Children who attend MDO, but do not come on the day a special visit is scheduled, are invited to attend with a parent or caregiver.

Enrichments

We offer a variety of in school enrichments including music class on Wednesdays, and Spanish class on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“I really feel like my child feels at home at MDO. She loves her teachers and the administrators and she has made some nice friends as well. I couldn’t be happier with our choice!”
“I think the classroom experience is great. Good balance of art, play, and learning.”
“My children love MDO!”

Parent Sharing Program

At MDO, we love discovering the unique skills and knowledge our families possess. Through our Parent Sharing Program (PSP), parents can sign up to run an in-class activity or demonstration showcasing an art project, science experiment, cultural immersion, etc. Past PSPs have included making play dough, applesauce, and sensory art, an exploration of Korean culture, and a study on animal camouflage. These experiences are always a delight for the children—especially your own!

After School Programs

MDO partners with independent after school programs for each day of the week. For more information, please see the After School Program page.

Adding Days

Space permitting, you may add an extra day for your child at the rate of $30/day, due no later than the morning of the added day.

Sensory Play

With sensory play, children use all their senses to discover and explore their environment, which helps to develop their imagination, creative thinking, and ability to problem-solve and experiment with solutions. They also improve their gross and fine motor skills, coordination and concentration, and learn how to work cooperatively and collaboratively. Messy play is important for young children, allowing for endless ways to develop and learn. At MDO, we believe getting messy is a good thing!

Volunteering

As a parent at MDO, there are many opportunities for you to volunteer your time and skills to help our school. You can serve on our Board of Directors, which is almost entirely composed of parents, or you can fill a school function, event coordinator, or classroom role. If you're interested in volunteering, just stop by the office or email director@morningsidedayout.org!