Rich, Stimulating and Encouraging Learning Experiences

• Many experiences that encourage coactive play are provided for the children. How well we are able to express ourselves, our needs and our concerns to others will be a deciding factor in our success as human beings. Early childhood is a critical time for social development. We have many opportunities for cooperative play. At the same time we respect a child who needs some time alone.
• Children develop vocabulary through developmentally appropriate and intentional curriculum planning, interactions with teachers, literature, community visitors and multicultural experiences. Research shows the size of a child’s vocabulary is a strong indicator of future school success.
• Play is a valuable learning experience. When children feel competent in their play positive self-esteem is achieved. Some characteristics of good self-esteem are:
  • sense of belonging
  • risk taking
  • role models
  • giving back to the group
  • humor
  • support
  • power
    All of these characteristics (and more) happen during play.
• A young child’s learning and development is always integrated. Therefore, we integrate music, math, science, literature, language, and art by using themes based on children’s interests (dinosaurs, hats, insects, etc.).
• Information gathered from assessments, family goals and teacher observations are used to individualize and modify the curriculum to meet the needs and interests of the children in our program.

Research shows that mixed age grouping promotes a higher level of play and learning.  We design our environment and open ended activities with the understanding that children are at different developmental stages.  This encourages children to challenge themselves to further their own development while respecting and acknowledging each child’s strengths and weaknesses.