Preschool & Pre-K Programs
Programs created for our community by local early learning experts. Pre-K is in partnership with Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program.
Find your Fit for Preschool & Pre-K
The Preschool Academy encompasses Huntey’s Clubhouse options for Preschool and Pre-K. Our Preschool programs begin around 3 years old. Pre-K, through the GSRP Program, is the final step before kindergarten, focusing on structured learning and school readiness to support a smooth transition.
Our program is designed to help children develop a love of learning and build a strong foundation for future success. We help our preschoolers build confidence, independence, and essential academic skills through engaging daily activities. Through play, children develop important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and creativity. Our educators’ experience with local children guide them on how to approach learning, paying close attention to where to focus, the pace, cultural experiences, and more.
Here are some of the key features of our program:
- Play-based curriculum: Our curriculum is based on the idea that play is the most natural way for children to learn. We provide a variety of materials and activities that stimulate children’s imaginations and encourage them to explore and experiment.
- Hands-on learning: We believe that children learn best by doing. That’s why we provide lots of opportunities for hands-on learning, whether it’s through art projects, science experiments, or dramatic play.
- Socialization: We believe that socialization is a key component of early childhood education. Our program provides lots of opportunities for children to interact with their peers and develop important social skills like sharing, cooperation, and empathy.
- Experienced teachers: Our teachers are experienced and knowledgeable about early childhood development. They are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can thrive.
We’re proud of our program and the positive impact it has on our students. If you’re interested in learning more about our program, please contact us to schedule a tour. We look forward to meeting you and your child!
What is GSRP?
The Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is Michigan’s free PreK program for eligible four-year-olds. Ranked #1 in the U.S., it’s a safe place where children learn how to get along with others, share, take turns, and make friends. Math, reading, and thinking skills are taught every day through fun, hands-on activities. GSRP will help make sure your child is ready for kindergarten and beyond.
Learn More Here.
Start the Application Process
If your child will be 4 years old and you know the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is right for your family, you can go ahead and apply directly through your county. You should have an option to note the Program Preference (Huntey’s Clubhouse). Use the links below:
Mecosta-Osceola GSRP Application
serving Big Rapids, Morley Stanwood, and Reed City locations
Montcalm GSRP Application
serving Howard City location
Newaygo GSRP Application
serving Hesperia & Newaygo locations
Frequently Asked Questions
We use Creative Curriculum®. It is a comprehensive, research-based curriculum that features exploration and discovery as a way of learning, enabling children to develop confidence, creativity, and lifelong critical-thinking skills. Our curriculum meets the standards set by Michigan Early Learning and National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Yes. Rest time is important for children as it promotes physical health, emotional well-being, cognitive function, healthy habits, and supports the learning process. Rest times are age appropriate and they vary as children begin prepping for kindergarten. Your child will have a cot or mat and a designated area of their classroom where they rest each day after lunch. You may supply a blanket and pillow that will stay in the classroom. Items are laundered each week (or more, as necessary).
Depending on the weather, yes! Children participate in outdoor play every day on an age appropriate playground. Outdoor play is always supervised to ensure that children are safe and that their play is appropriate and inclusive. Outdoor play promotes creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, which are all essential for a child’s overall development. It provides children with opportunities to engage in physical activity, explore their environment, develop their motor skills, and socialize with their peers. During winter months, we encourage you to leave winter gear (hat, gloves/mittens, snowsuit, boots) at the center. Please make sure everything is labeled.
Of course. Please visit our Nutrition page to learn more. All of our menus are posted weekly on our News/Blog section.
We offer Preschool & GSRP Pre-K at all of our Huntey’s Clubhouse locations!
We will be utilizing TC Gold Assessments. During the school year we have two parent teacher conferences. Families will receive a progress report outlining their child’s strengths and next steps. Teachers are always available to meet with families on an as-needed basis.
Your child may be eligible to stay enrolled in our child care center over the summer. We also have a Summer Program for children who have aged out of our Pre-K classrooms. Check out more here.
Our child care centers open at 5 AM or 6 AM (depending on location) and operate until 6 PM. We offer full-day preschool for three-year-old children, where they follow a structured daily routine. Lead Teachers, typically in the classroom from 7 AM to 3 PM, provide curriculum-based instruction.
Our GSRP classrooms follow instructional hours aligned with local public schools (varies by location). For families needing extended care, we offer before and/or after GSRP care to support full-day coverage.
A child should be potty trained to attend. However, we meet children and parents where they are at. We understand children are in different stages of development and our team is here to support. We understand accidents happen, and we are prepared.
The teachers and assistants meet the requirements set by the State of Michigan. For GSRP, Lead Teachers should have a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education. Associates should have a CDA or Associates Degree. For 3 year old Preschool, all Lead Teachers at a minimum have or are actively working towards their Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). Many have furthered their education and hold degrees as well!
In addition to these requirements, there are MiRegistry courses required regarding education and health requirements for people working with small children. Each team member also undergoes an extensive background check, CPR and first aid certification.
At Huntey’s Clubhouse, we strive to provide our team members with continued education in the area of Early Childhood Education.
GSRP tuition is funded by the state and free to families who qualify.
Tuition is accepted in form of self pay or State/DHHS. It is collected directly from the state or parents are billed weekly on an app called Procare Tuition Express.
Tuition is specific to each location. GSRP is free to those who qualify. Huntey’s Clubhouse accepts DHHS, TriShare, and other funding sources.
We have additional information and policies listed on the Resources section of our website. If you have other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at hello@hunteysclubhouse.com. If you have questions about enrollment, please e-mail enroll@hunteysclubhouse.com.