Curriculum
Curriculum Statement
The goal of our curriculum is based on the idea that children learn through play and exploration. Achieving a balance between adult stimulation and independent exploration and discovery is how that goal is accomplished. Finding this balance revolves around the space in which the children occupy the equipment and opportunities offered, observations of individual children, and the expertise of the teacher. Children learn best from the activity or toy they choose. Because of this, the curriculum should offer the flexibility of addressing and respecting children’s immediate interests. An objective of the curriculum should be to create those “teachable moments” throughout the day whether exploring and learning on their own or by interacting with a teacher or peer. 
Alpine Room (Infants)
Curriculum for infants should provide security, predictability, and the opportunity to explore their environment safely. Infants spend much of their first year testing their environment to see who they can trust to meet their needs. It is important that infant caregivers remain consistent and available so that they learn to trust. If this can happen, infants have the motivation to explore and experiment within their environment independently. The environment should offer experiences that challenge their motor, social, cognitive, and language development and needs. Sensory experiences are also key at this early age for developing a sense of their environment and themselves.
Swallowtail (Young Toddlers) and Apollo (Older Toddlers)
Curriculum for toddlers should also provide predictability and security. Toddlers learn with their whole bodies. They like to explore with their hands, feet, mouth, and eyes. Toddlers need the opportunity to express their energy and curiosity in a positive and enriching environment. The emergence of self-awareness is critical during the first three years. Toddlers need a program that will promote a positive self-image and encourage a child’s natural desire to learn. They too need opportunities to enhance motor, social, cognitive, language and self help skills.
Monarch (Preschool) and Karner Blue (Pre-K/Kindergarten)
Curriculum for preschool and prekindergarten children is derived from many sources such as the knowledge base of various disciplines, society, cultural, and children and parents’ desires. Since children learn best from the activity or theme they choose, it is most effective to let the children guide the curriculum. A talented teaching team uses careful observation and attention to pull the children's’ curiosities together in a cohesive and meaningful way. The daily schedule represents a balance of structure and free play (choice areas) comprised of developmentally appropriate activities designed to help each child toward independence and enhanced self-esteem. Our activities encourage children's’ awareness of the value of uniqueness and cultural diversity.
