ACADEMICS
Preschool at Traverse City Christian School
A private Christian preschool where faith and learning inspire bright beginnings
3-4 YEAR OLD
What kind of start do you want for your child? Maybe you’ve watched them stack blocks, carefully balancing one on top of the other, learning patience and problem-solving without even realizing it. Or you’ve seen their eyes light up as they ask their hundredth “why?” of the day, eager to understand the world around them. And in the quiet moments: folding their hands to pray before a meal or singing a song about Jesus, you see glimpses of a faith that’s just beginning to take root.
At Traverse City Christian School, we believe these moments matter. Bright beginnings happen through play, discovery, and our Christ-centered foundation. As a private preschool in Traverse City, MI, we help students grow with our intentional, whole-child approach. With a strong partnership between home and school, we work together to support your child’s development every step of the way.
Here’s what you can expect:
Learning Environment
Choosing a preschool is a big step. You want a place where learning feels like play, and where your child feels safe and truly known. You may wonder: Is this the right fit? Will my child be overwhelmed? How structured is the day?
TC Christian offers an atmosphere where little hands explore, little hearts grow, and little minds discover the joy of learning — at a pace that feels right for them. Teachers provide structure in the morning when children are most ready to learn, and a slower, more relaxed rhythm in the afternoon to meet their physical and emotional needs.
Engaging Spaces
Soft rugs for cozy storytime, colorful centers for hands-on play, and joyful spaces where friendships form — our classrooms are designed to make every child feel at ease and excited to learn.
Empowering Families
From morning greetings to end-of-day updates, we keep parents involved in their child’s progress. Through Class Dojo, you’ll see glimpses of your child’s discoveries in class, strengthening our teachers’ connection with parents.
Experiencing Learning
Building with blocks, digging in sensory bins, and creating with paint — our classrooms apply minimal technology, focusing on hands-on learning. We occasionally use projection for movement breaks, worship time, and engaging visual lessons.
Every Child Known
With a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio, your child gets the attention they need to thrive. Our teachers observe daily progress, creating enriching experiences that support both learning and faith.
See TC Christian’s Preschool in Action
As you consider the best private Christian preschool in Traverse City for your child, there’s no better way to explore TC Christian than by visiting our campus. Step into our classrooms, meet our loving teachers and experience the faith-filled environment where young learners grow.
Program Offerings
Every child’s first school experience should feel comfortable and just the right fit for their growing needs — and every family’s schedule looks a little different. That’s why we offer flexible options, allowing you to choose what works best for your family.
Flexible Preschool Programs*
Half-Day Program (Minimum of 3 days/week) | 8-11:00 a.m.
Full-Day Program (Minimum of 2 days/week) | 8:00 a.m.-2:45 p.m.
Before-School Care | 7:45-8:00 a.m.
*We recognize that every family’s needs are unique. While we recommend Tuesday/Thursday, Monday/Wednesday/Friday, or a full-week schedule for consistency, we also consider specific requests for the set scheduled days on a case-by-case basis to provide the best balance for your child.
Growing Independence in a Safe Environment
Children are required to be potty-trained in our program, but we understand that occasional accidents may happen.
Teachers are able to provide gentle assistance as needed, while still ensuring privacy and safety as children develop greater independence.
A Day in the Life of a TC Christian Preschooler
Morning
Table Activities: A gentle start with engaging skill-building fun.
Circle Time: Group learning in math, literacy, and Bible stories.
Snack Time: Enjoying a healthy snack to refuel.
Free Choice Centers: Hands-on play that fosters creativity and social skills.
Outdoor Recess: Active time to run, climb, and explore.
Music & Movement: Singing, dancing, and rhythm-based fun.
Half-Day Student Dismissal
Afternoon
Lunch: A relaxed time to eat and connect with friends.
Enrichment & Play: Indoor and outdoor activities to explore and grow.
Story Time: A calming moment to listen and imagine.
Rest & Quiet Time: A chance to recharge with a nap or quiet play.
End-of-Day Activities: Art, puzzles, and gentle play before dismissal.
Learn More About TC Christian
Discover why TC Christian is a top private preschool in Grand Traverse County.
Curriculum Distinctives
At TC Christian, learning goes beyond memorizing facts. Our Christian preschool program is a place where curiosity and connection lead the way.
Learning Through Play
In the writing center, little hands practice letters, cut paper and create stories, while the dramatic play area buzzes with laughter as kids cook pretend meals and act out adventures. Towering block castles, winding train tracks, and colorful Legos turn problem-solving into a hands-on adventure.
Kindergarten Readiness
With books in their laps and crayons in hand, students explore letters and stories, laying the foundation for early reading. Counting games, puzzles, and hands-on discovery make math fun and engaging. As they listen to Bible stories and talk about kindness, they begin to see how faith shapes their actions.
A warm, welcoming space filled with bright colors and cozy corners gives our students a sense of security from the moment they walk in. Teachers offer gentle guidance, helping little ones navigate big feelings with reassuring words. Through our Beehive System, we encourage kids to “Bee Respectful, Bee Responsible, Bee Kind, and Bee Safe,” turning positive character traits into everyday actions.
Faith in Action
Your child will have opportunities to pray during snack time and enjoy pictures in Bible storybooks, discovering God’s love on every page. Outside, students marvel at nature, seeing His handiwork in the flowers, the sky, and even the smallest bugs. Through daily moments of kindness, sharing, and truth-seeking, TC Christian preschoolers begin to reflect Christ’s love in everything they do.
Family Stories
We wanted a school where our daughter could grow in a Christ-centered community, and from the moment we met Lisa and Stacy, we knew this was the place. They welcomed our whole family with open arms, and as we’ve built relationships with other families and teachers, TC Christian has truly become home. We feel so blessed to be part of this community.
— Morgan S., Preschool Parent
Our preschool experience has been incredible. All three of my kids have loved their time here, and I love watching them grow and learn. The staff is amazing — my children feel so loved that they ask to go to school every day!
— Jessica D., Parent of Three TC Christian Students
We chose TC Christian because we wanted our girls’ education to be rooted in faith and strong moral values, surrounded by a community that shares our beliefs. Here, academic growth goes hand in hand with spiritual development. From the moment we walked through the door, it felt like family.
— Emily G., Parent of a Preschooler and a Kindergartener
We are beyond grateful for the preschool program at TC Christian. The teachers create a nurturing, Christ-centered environment filled with hands-on learning that points children to Jesus. Thanks to Mrs. Falk and Mrs. Ellis, our daughter feels confident and excited for her future at TC Christian!
— Kelli S., Preschool Parent
Let’s Connect and Explore Your Child’s Future.
Craig O’Connor
Admissions & Advancement Director
(231) 929-1747 ext 128
coconnor@tcchristian.org
Ready to take the next step?
Visit our campus or start your application today.
Social & Emotional Growth