WHAT WE BELIEVE ABOUT EDUCATING YOUNG CHILDREN

Our ideas about how a child learns are based on the research of Jean Piaget, Lillian Katz, John Holt, Lisa Murphy and other noted educators in the field of early childhood and the NAEYC. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is dedicated to improving the well-being of all young children, with particular focus on the quality of educational and developmental services for all children from birth through age 8.

No two children are the same.

Each has his or her own "time-clock." Walking, talking, cutting teeth and learning to read are examples of milestones in development that are unique to each child.

We call it learning .

Children learn best by using three-dimensional manipulative materials, and concrete experiences in a context that is relevant to them.
We begin with their world — what they know and what they are curious about.
Some call this play — we call it LEARNING.

Today is the day that counts.

We are not focused on getting children "ready" for the next experience but on enjoying the experience at hand. "Good todays bring good tomorrows."

Children need choices.

The role of the teacher is to create a stimulating classroom, then to observe, interact and facilitate intellectual, creative, social and spiritual growth.

Developing social competence is as important as the 3 R's.

If children are to succeed in life, they must learn how to function in society. Practicing social skills is an extremely important focus of our day.

It is our responsibility, as Christians, to pass on to our children the message of His unconditional Love. His presence in our everyday lives and the Bible stories that help us understand who He is and how He wants us to live.