What to Expect at Rossman's Early Childhood Playdates

by: Director of Admission Sarah McGinn

This winter, Rossman hosted two admission events, known as Early Childhood Playdates. During this event, we invited the children who have applied to our Junior and Senior Kindergarten programs for the upcoming school year to come spend time playing in the classroom with a few of our teachers. This playtime is an excellent opportunity to informally observe applicants and see them play, engage, and interact with their peers and teachers. This allows us the privilege of getting to know the children better and gives the children an opportunity to spend time on our beautiful Rossman campus. Coupled with the 1:1 Gesell Developmental Observation, it enables a deeper connection with our applicants.

On what proved to be very chilly Saturday mornings, the prospective families arrived at Rossman with great anticipation. The children put on their name tags and settled into the Ball Library with their parents, where they awaited the teacher's arrival. The teachers entered the library to greet the children, and they joined the teachers on a walk down the inviting Rossman hallway to the Junior Kindergarten classroom. The children loved stopping to admire the big kids' handiwork that adorned the bulletin boards.

Mrs. Zurlinden was the first to greet them in the classroom, inviting them to join her in a circle on the rug. She then led a rich group discussion about the children's favorite letters and numbers. The children were so excited and eager to share their thoughts and ideas with the group.

Once circle time was complete, the children were invited to visit a variety of explorations set up around the room: writing at the message center, using tools at the playdough center, building tracks at the train area, and exploring balance scales at the math center. The children chose the center they wanted to visit first. As they played, their curiosity and sense of exploration were sparked in this new and unfamiliar setting. They had a blast! Teachers mingled about the room, interacting with the children while also making observations as they spent time creating, building, and conversing with one another.

While the playdate took place in the classroom, the applicant's families mingled in the Ball Library with current and prospective Rossman parents. They shared invaluable experiences, providing prospective parents with a personal glimpse into what might lie ahead on their own Rossman journey.

Ready to experience Rossman firsthand? Our application process for the 2026-2027 school year starts September 1 and here are the playdates.

• Saturday, January 10, 2026 |  8:45–11:00 a.m. 
• Saturday, February 7, 2026  |  8:45–11:00 a.m. 

Applications will be due January 31, 2026. Visit our admissions page for more information, or contact our admissions department to speak to someone directly.