Our Pre-K Teaching Philosophy
All children must feel valued.
- We speak to children respectfully at their eye-level.
- We use the children’s names often.
- We listen to the children’s ideas and concerns.
- We offer children choices whenever possible.
- We acknowledge children’s feelings.
- We incorporate children’s ideas and interests into the curriculum.
- We are always honest with children.
Children need experiences that utilize all their senses.
- Children need time to interact with the materials and each other.
- Children must have hands-on experiences with new material as well as familiar ones.
Children need time for creative exploration.
- Give children lots of time to experiment and explore.
- Make time for art, dancing, music, movement, building and construction, and dramatic play.
- Children are able to use the materials in unique ways.
Children are the “roots” of the classroom.
- They learn from each other.
- The curriculum is based on the children’s experiences, interests, ideas, and developmental needs.
- The classroom is a safe place to make mistakes.
- The environment encourages independence and opportunities to make choices.
- The children feel empowered in their classroom.
Special attention is given to each individual child and his/her developmental needs.
- The curriculum is geared towards each child’s learning style.
- Activities, toys, and books are chosen to meet the individual needs and interests of the children.
- Expectations for each child are based on their needs and abilities.
Family’s involvement in the classroom is very important.
- You can share a family tradition with the class.
- You can provide items to enhance our curriculum.
- You can read stories to the children.
- Parents are welcome in the classroom at any time.
Social and emotional developments are key components to learning and are linked to all other developmental areas.
- We practice cooperating with others and working independently.
- We practice sharing in a relaxed, non-threatening way.
- We take care of each other and ourselves.
- We are respectful and responsible community members.
- We always try because we can do difficult things and there is support available if we need it.
- The classroom is a safe place to express emotions.
- Feelings are acknowledged.