INDIANAPOLIS -- A new preschool at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is off to a successful start.

Museum officials said 72 students are enrolled in the first semester, which is in the second of 14 weeks, 6News' Julie Pursley reported.

The classes, which are open to children ages 3 to 5, sold out. Students said they are enthralled by different parts of the class, which include instruction of shapes, letters, numbers and colors.

Officials at the museum said the children have been eager to explore and that exhibits play an important role in the program.

"It's an extension of our classroom," said Lisa Hay, a teacher at the museum. "We go on a field trip every day into the museum."

Parents were permitted to enroll children for one, two or three half-day morning sessions each week. Parents had to commit to the full 14 weeks at a cost of $20 a day.

"They're just such a good learning institution, and they have an idea about how kids learn and how to get them engaged," said parent Sonya Yoder-Beering.

There was a waiting list to get children into the fall semester. The school said there could be room for future growth.

"We're also looking at how we might do afternoons or add additional classes," said Jeff Patchen, president and CEO of the museum. "So far, it's a very, very good early success."

Enrollment for the spring session begins in October. Parents can apply online or call 317-334-4000.