OUR CURRICULUM
In our classroom, we focus on the following areas of learning:
Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum
Hands-On, Play-Based Learning
Social-Emotional Growth & Self-Help Skills
Early Literacy and Cognitive Skills
AREAS OF LEARNING
FINE-MOTOR DEVELOPMENT: When children practice stringing beads, manipulating playdough, using child-safe scissors, and painting with brushes, children are strengthening the small muscles in their hands and fingers and working on hand-eye coordination. These skills are crucial for tasks such as writing letters, buttoning clothing, and using utensils.
SMALL GROUP INSTRUCTION: With only 6 students per 1 teacher, daily small group time provides a personalized and focused learning experience where activities are tailored to meet the specific developmental levels of each child. Children practice letter recognition, work on fine motor skills, or explore new concepts in math or science.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: We work with children to help them to recognize and manage their emotions and develop persistence, flexibility, and self-awareness. We practice taking turns during playtime, sharing ideas and listening to others, working collaboratively with others, and persevering through challenges.
GROUP PLAY: When children gather on the rug to construct a train track or build a tall tower, they learn to share materials, take turns, and listen to each other's ideas. We encourage problem-solving, asking for help, offering suggestions, and compromising when their visions differ.
STEM CURRICULUM: Science, math, engineering, and technology is integrated into our curriculum through hands-on activities like building structures with blocks, experimenting with water, patterning with blocks, or observing nature. Children engage in scientific inquiry and problem-solving while learning concepts such as cause and effect, design, and teamwork..
PROCESS ART: We emphasize the exploration and enjoyment of the creative process itself. Children are encouraged to experiment with a variety of materials—paints, clay, glue, natural objects—allowing them to express their ideas in their own unique ways. By valuing the journey over the outcome, we help children develop confidence in their abilities.
MUSIC & MOVEMENT: Children gather together at the end of each morning for Circle Time, where they participate in songs, finger plays, and interactive games that get them moving. Music is woven into a variety of learning skills, such as counting, the alphabet, or colors, while movements like dancing, jumping, or stretching help develop motor skills, coordination, and body awareness.
DRAMATIC PLAY: In our dramatic play area, children naturally develop language skills as they negotiate roles, create storylines, and communicate with their peers. They also learn important social skills like cooperation, sharing, and problem-solving when they work together to build a pretend grocery store or act out a favorite story.
OUTDOOR EXPLORATION: We encourage curiosity and scientific thinking as children notice the natural world around them. Opportunities arise for imaginative play, cooperative games, and active movement. Children learn to appreciate nature, take healthy risks, and experience the joy and freedom that comes from playing in the fresh air.
EARLY LITERACY: We create a rich language environment where children are exposed to books, songs, rhymes, and conversations throughout the day. We focus on building foundational skills such as letter recognition, phonemic awareness, and early writing.
SELF-HELP SKILLS: We patiently support children as they learn to put on their own shoes, zip jackets, pour their own water. Through daily routines and thoughtful encouragement, children develop essential self-help skills that build confidence and capability.
SENSORY PLAY: Sensory play is naturally calming and can help children regulate their emotions and focus their attention. It also helps children develop fine motor skills, scientific thinking and language development.
Daily Schedule
9:00-9:15am
9:15-10:10am
10:10am
10:15am
10:30-11:10am
11:15-11:45am
11:45am-12:00pm
12:00-1:00pm
Handwashing and Group Story Time
Free Choice Time
Clean-Up
Snack (Provided by Meadowlark)
Playground Time
Small Group Time
Circle Time: Music and Movement
Optional Lunch Hour (bring from home)