Parents attend class with their child one day per week, allowing them to learn alongside their children. Children experience a safe and supportive environment where they can develop a sense of trust with teachers (and other adults) and interact with other children.
Outdoors, a large yard allows children to move freely and participate in a wide variety of experiences which help them develop their gross motor skills. The outdoor environment also allows for many different tactile experiences: sandbox play and sensory table activities along with a variety of open-ended art experiences encourage creativity, fine motor development, and sensory exploration.
Indoors, there are a variety of manipulatives, such as puzzles and blocks, which allow children to develop their fine motor and cognitive skills, and a quiet area where children can explore books. A play kitchen encourages role playing and imaginative play. Stories, songs, finger-plays and movement are introduced, especially at circle time.
The toddler program is designed specifically for the developmental level of toddlers, and allows parents the opportunity to share in their child’s first school experience in a safe, supportive, interactive, and engaging manner. Emotionally, toddlers are trying out new ideas and exploring their surroundings while staying close to their parent as a base of support and trust. Socially, toddlers are interested in other children, yet engage mostly in parallel play with their classmates. They come together at circle time and snack/story time as they begin to learn how to be part of a group. Parent education is integrated each week through readings, observations, lectures, and discussions.
Susan Pence
Natalie Johnson