For ALL classrooms, children will be encouraged to primarily learn through play and experiences.  Teachers will spend time actively playing and engaging with children to assist with problem solving, ask questions, lead by example, and scaffold learning.  We will strive to offer choices as much as possible, work to build esteem by encouraging independence, provide positive feedback and guidance, and guide children as they make decisions. All classes will participate in daily circle times, story times, music and movement activities, and outdoor time (weather permitting). We strive to make ALL experiences FUN!  Children will always learn best if they are enjoying the task!

Bluebird Class: This program focuses on social interactions, building relationships, developing a positive self image, language and communication, exploration and problem solving, large motor skills, fine motor skills, music and movement, cognitive development, and self-help skills. Teachers work closely with families whose children are working toward toileting independence. Potty training will be our main focus in this group as they will need to accomplish this skill in order to move to the Kingfisher Class.  Social skills such as sharing, negotiation, conflict resolution and communication with words will be one of the main focuses. Bluebirds will practice Zoo Phonics daily and will work toward being proficient in identifying all animals and the sounds/motions. Bluebirds will work on counting, colors, and shapes in a fun and playful manner, as we build a foundation for learning in the older preschool classrooms. This class will  begin to practice pre writing skills, such as drawing circles and lines.  They will also work on identifying their names in print as well as the first letter of their name.

The following are our guiding principles as we plan our curriculum and activities.  All teachers are truly invested in creating a safe, loving, nurturing environment designed to help your child learn, grow, and reach their full potential! ​

• Each child is unique and can succeed. Children are individuals with different rates and paths of development. Each child is uniquely influenced by their prenatal envi­ronment, temperament, physiology, and life experiences. With the appropriate support, all children can be successful learners.
  
• Learning occurs within the context of relationships. Caring families, teachers, and other adults matter in a young child's life. Responsive and supportive interactions with adults are essential to children's learning.
  
• Families are children's first and most important caregivers, teachers, and advocates. Families must be respected and supported as the primary influence in their child's early learning and education. Their knowledge, skills, and cultural backgrounds contribute to children's school readiness.
  
• Children learn best when they are emotionally and physically safe and secure. Nurturing, responsive, and consis­tent care helps create safe environments where children feel secure and valued. In these settings, children are able to engage fully in learning experiences.
  
• Areas of development are integrated, and children learn many concepts and skills at the same time. Any single skill, behavior, or ability may involve multiple areas of development. For example, as infants gain fine motor skills, they can manipulate objects in new ways and deepen their understanding of cause and effect. As preschoolers gain new verbal skills, they can better manage their emotions and form more complex friendships.
  
• Teaching must be intentional and focused on how children learn and grow. Children are active, engaged, and eager learners. Good teaching practices build on these intrinsic strengths by providing develop­mentally appropriate instruction and oppor­tunities for exploration and meaningful play.
  
• Every child has diverse strengths rooted in their family's culture, background, language, and beliefs. Responsive and respectful learning environments welcome children from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Effective teaching practices and learning experiences build on the unique backgrounds and prior experiences of each child.