Curriculum

Our programs are based on the principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practice*. Several primary themes guide the structuring of our program. These include:

• Developmentally appropriate curriculum provides for all areas of a child’s development: physical, emotional, social, communicative & cognitive through an integrated approach.
• Appropriate curriculum planning is based on teacher observations and recordings of each child’s special interests and developmental progress.
• Curriculum planning emphasizes learning as an interactive process. Teachers prepare the environment for children to learn through active exploration and interaction with adults, other children and materials.
• Learning activities and materials are concrete, real and relevant to the lives of young children. Teachers create experiences that engage children in purposeful and meaningful learning that relate to key curriculum concepts.
• Activities are provided for a wider range of developmental interests and abilities than the chronological age range of the group would suggest. Adults are prepared to meet the needs of children who exhibit unusual interests and skills outside the typical developmental range.
• Teachers provide a variety of activities, active and passive, and materials that reflect the multiplicity of culture and language. The difficulty, complexity and challenge of activities are gradually increased as children become more involved and develop understanding and skills.
• Teachers provide opportunities for children to choose from a variety of activities, materials and equipment. Ample time to explore through active involvement is also provided. Teachers facilitate children’s engagement with materials and activities, and extend learning by asking questions or making suggestions that stimulate children’s thinking.
• Diverse cultural and non-sexist experiences, materials and equipment, reflecting the make-up of each class, are provided for children of all ages. All children are provided daily outdoor experiences, weather permitting.
• Family is the center of a child’s world. Family members are welcomed and invited to participate in all aspects of our program and curriculum.

* Bredekamp, S., & Copple, C., 2009. Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs: Revised Edition. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children.