Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Preschool in Kirkwood, MO
The Lab School has been a cornerstone of early childhood education since 1964, dedicated to nurturing young minds through play-based learning. Our team of degreed professionals, with over 70% holding Master's degrees, creates a structured yet flexible environment tailored to each child's developmental needs. We offer programs ranging from early care to full-day preschool, emphasizing social growth, academic readiness, and emotional well-being. Located in Kirkwood, Missouri, we serve families across Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Des Peres, and Glendale. Our peanut-free campus features four classrooms, a licensed playground, and enrichment programs like Music & Movement and Gross Motor.As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we prioritize community partnerships and maintain a legacy of excellence in early education. Our curriculum, rooted in Project Construct, fosters independence, conflict resolution, and self-esteem. Parents consistently highlight our responsive staff, flexible scheduling, and the seamless transition our graduates make to kindergarten. We welcome families to schedule visits and experience firsthand why we remain a trusted choice for preschool education.
Services
Early Care
Half Day Preschool
Full Day Preschool
Summer Camp
Music & Movement
Gross Motor
Lunch Bunch
Teacher Training
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience in early childhood education
- All staff members hold college degrees, with over 70% having Master's degrees
- We offer flexible scheduling options to fit every family's needs
- We maintain a 100% peanut-free environment
- Our curriculum focuses on learning through play and social development
What people say
Nurturing teachers
Flexible scheduling
Peanut-free environment
Excellent kindergarten preparation
Active parent community
Services
Early Care
Our Early Care program provides supervised care from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM for working families. This structured environment helps children transition smoothly into their preschool day through play-based activities and social interaction. The program accommodates children needing morning care before regular school hours.
Full Day Preschool
Full Day Preschool offers comprehensive education from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM with structured learning and play. The curriculum includes academic readiness, social development, and physical activities. This program suits families requiring extended care with educational continuity throughout the day.
Summer Camp
Our four-week Summer Camp serves children aged 3-6 with engaging activities and play-based learning. The program maintains educational continuity during summer months while providing age-appropriate social experiences. Activities align with our regular curriculum while incorporating seasonal themes.
Music & Movement
Music & Movement is a weekly enrichment program held every Thursday. This class develops motor skills, rhythm, and creative expression through structured musical activities. The program complements our core curriculum by enhancing physical coordination and social interaction.
Gross Motor
Gross Motor classes occur Mondays, focusing on physical development through structured play activities. The program enhances coordination, balance, and large muscle development in a safe environment. These sessions are integrated into our regular curriculum for all attending children.
People
Teri Stark
Director
Teri Stark leads The Lab School with over 20 years of early childhood education experience. She holds a Master's degree in Education and specializes in developmental curriculum design. Her leadership maintains the school's founding principles while advancing educational innovation.
Jan Erdman
Administrative Assistant
Jan Erdman manages administrative operations with 15+ years in educational support roles. She ensures smooth daily operations and serves as primary contact for parent communications. Her organizational expertise contributes to the school's efficient management.
Moira Nast
Red Room Teacher
Moira Nast teaches in our Red Room program for 3-4 year olds. With a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education, she specializes in early social development. Her classroom emphasizes play-based learning and foundational academic skills.
Aiden Smith
Movement & Music Teacher
Aiden Smith leads our Music & Movement program with expertise in child development through physical activity. He holds certifications in early childhood physical education. His classes focus on rhythm, coordination, and creative expression.
Cindy Early
Traveling Teacher
Cindy Early serves as a traveling teacher supporting multiple classrooms. With a Master's in Special Education, she provides individualized learning support. Her role ensures personalized attention for children needing additional developmental assistance.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 3-6 who are potty trained, with classrooms organized by developmental stages.
Is The Lab School a licensed facility?
Yes, we are a licensed preschool with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and state-certified staff.
What is your curriculum based on?
Our curriculum follows Project Construct principles, emphasizing play-based learning and social development.
Do you offer part-time options?
Yes, we offer half-day programs, early care, and lunch bunch options alongside full-day preschool.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we provide catered healthy lunches for Lunch Bunch and Extended Day participants.
What safety measures do you have?
We maintain a 100% peanut-free environment and secure campus with controlled access during operating hours.
