Our Approach to Play-Based Learning and Growth
Our programs recognize children as individuals who deserve the right to be treated equally with fair and consistent limits. We believe that play is an effective method of learning. Play is a child’s way of exploring, experimenting, and learning cooperative behavior. Therefore, children are provided with hands-on activities that enhance learning and promote independence. By fostering children's natural curiosity and creativity, a positive self-image develops.
Our program is not affiliated with any religious organizations.
History of Old Floris School House
The Old Floris School house is a four-room school built in 1911. It stands where a one-room school house was built in 1876. A two-room school succeeded that first school in 1901. A fourth building, the Floris Vocational Technical High School, was built alongside and opened in 1921.
These two schools served the Frying Pan/Floris community for years. The Fairfax County School Board stopped using them during the 1950s. The high school was torn down, but the four-room school house remained. A Fairfax County Extension Agent, Joseph Beard, proposed that the building and land be preserved as a youth center to serve the Future Farmers of America, a 4-H Club, and scouting groups and to serve as a site for fairs and community recreation.
In 1960, the land was deeded to the Fairfax County Park Authority. Subsequent events, land acquisitions, and community involvement led to the development of Frying Pan Farm Park.
Today, the Old Floris School house serves as a family-farm-oriented preschool during the academic year and as a day camp in summer. Katydid, Inc., manages both.
