HomeCurriculum and Teaching staff
Curriculum
Our program is based on the interests, needs, and abilities of the preschool-age child. Each day is planned and balanced with respect to indoor and outdoor time; individual, small group and large group activities; and quiet and active play.
Infants
Our primary concern is loving care for the infants and young toddlers. There are many routines, but few schedules. Each child's needs are met as they are manifested. The environment is arranged to allow for individual growth and to encourage exploration.
Toddlers and Twos
The classroom routine allows for busy, active times and calm, quieter moments. Each day "together time" is planned which most of the children eagerly anticipate. The rest of the day children are choosing their activities in dramatic play, blocks, sensory experiences, books, and manipulatives. A goal is an increase in independence.
Threes
These children are independent and eager to learn and ready to include friends in play. Their classroom must challenge them to explore and create while allowing for security and comfort. Activities include quiet individual play and busy group efforts. Blocks, manipulatives, art, and quiet, soft places are all available. Outside play is available for approximately one hour each day.
Fours
The classroom will allow for exploration and discovery. The children will generate ideas as to what is studied and explored within the classroom. Opportunities for creative expression in art, music, and dramatic play will enhance the school program. Outside time is for one hour each day. Preparing fours for kindergarten is a goal of this class. All aspects of the day connect to provide a balance of quiet and
busy activity, individual and group interactions.
Teaching Staff
Each class has a teacher and an assistant whom are viewed as professionals. We strive to keep classes at the following caregiver to child ratio:
Infants Toddlers Twos Threes Fours
Because young children develop self-concepts at an early age, interactions with children are close and positive in nature.
Teachers have college degrees, and education specific to preschool children is encouraged of all staff. Staff development is promoted through outside training and four in-house staff development days per year.
All teachers and assistants are certified in CPR and trained in basic first aid. Infant and toddler teachers also attend brain development, SIDS and shaken baby syndrome each year.
Additionally, teachers obtain a minimum of 16 hours per year of staff training. Each teacher and assistant is a member of NAEYC and their state and local affiliates. We attend the state and local conferences each year and receive national journals to assist them in keeping abreast of the latest trends and issues in child development.
