Parent Resources
Everything you need to feel confident, informed, and ready — from FAQs and tuition details to supply lists and school readiness tips.
Questions? We've Got Answers.
Can't find what you're looking for? Call us at (202) 455-5143 or email us.
Investing in Your Child's Future
Tuition rates will be published when enrollment opens on June 8th, 2026. We accept DC childcare subsidies and offer need-based scholarships.
Full Day
8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Our core program. Includes all curriculum activities, outdoor play, rest time, and daily communication.
- Morning & afternoon sessions
- All six learning pillars
- Daily communication log
- Twice-yearly conferences
Extended Day
8:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Full Day plus extended afternoon enrichment — perfect for working families who need later pickup.
- Everything in Full Day
- Extended enrichment activities
- Outdoor & free play
- Flexible pickup until 5:15 PM
Financial Support Available
We Accept DC Childcare Subsidies
SPARK accepts DC OSSE childcare subsidy vouchers. We also offer a limited number of need-based scholarships for qualifying families. Don't let cost be a barrier — reach out and let's find a solution together.
What to Pack
A complete list of what your child needs each day at SPARK. All items should be clearly labeled with your child's first and last name.
Bag & Storage
- Full-size backpack (labeled with child's name)
- Small drawstring bag for shoes
- Reusable lunch bag or box
Clothing & Comfort
- 2 complete change of clothes (labeled)
- Comfortable, easy-to-remove shoes
- Weather-appropriate jacket
- Nap mat or small blanket (for rest time)
Food & Nutrition
- Packed lunch (nut-free)
- Morning snack
- Afternoon snack
- Reusable water bottle (labeled)
Supplies (Pre-K Bridge only)
- Box of 24 crayons
- Washable markers (8-pack)
- Glue sticks (4-pack)
- Child-safe scissors
Optional Extras
- Small family photo for cubby
- Comfort item for rest time (small stuffed animal)
- Sunscreen (labeled, SPF 30+)
Supply needs may vary slightly by age group. Your enrollment packet will include a personalized supply list for your child's classroom.
How to Prepare Your Child at Home
The most powerful school readiness tool is you. Here are research-backed tips to help your child thrive — starting today, right at home.
Build Separation Confidence
- Practice short separations before the first day — leave your child with a trusted caregiver for an hour or two.
- Create a consistent goodbye ritual (a special hug, a phrase, a wave) and stick to it every day.
- Avoid sneaking away — a confident, cheerful goodbye helps children feel secure.
- Trust that tears at drop-off are normal and usually stop within minutes.
Nurture Language & Literacy
- Read together every day — even 10–15 minutes makes a significant difference.
- Ask open-ended questions about books: "What do you think will happen next?"
- Narrate your daily activities to build vocabulary: "We're washing the carrots. They're orange and crunchy."
- Sing songs, recite nursery rhymes, and play with words — phonemic awareness starts with fun.
Develop Social Skills
- Arrange playdates with one or two children to practice turn-taking and sharing.
- Name emotions out loud: "You look frustrated. It's hard when the blocks fall down."
- Model conflict resolution: "Let's think of a way you both can play with the truck."
- Praise effort and kindness, not just achievement.
Encourage Independence
- Let your child practice dressing and undressing themselves — buttons, zippers, and velcro.
- Encourage self-feeding and using utensils at mealtimes.
- Give your child simple responsibilities: putting toys away, carrying their backpack.
- Allow natural consequences for small choices — it builds decision-making skills.
Still Have Questions? We're Here.
Reach out anytime — we love hearing from families. Enrollment opens June 8th, 2026.