Our Philosophies

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire."

This quote challenges what we think education is in early childhood: Parents often worry, "Do children know their colors, shapes, and letters?" But early childhood education is more than the "filling of a pail" with rote knowledge and identification skills. While that has its place, early childhood education goes much deeper! Our mission is to instill a LOVE of LEARNING in your child that will last a lifetime! We want children to develop the confidence to explore, discover, question, and experiment independently. We want them to become problem solvers and use higher-level thinking skills. We want children to express themselves in "a hundred different ways" and develop their creativity! 

Our center integrates the best of different approaches and theories of child development and learning, largely inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach as well as the works of Maria Montessori, Piaget, Vygotsky, Bruner, and Magda Gerber. We believe that children have "100 languages" (of expression) and learn best through hands-on, developmentally appropriate, multi-sensory experiences that are MEANINGFUL to them!  Our teachers are skilled at observing students at work and during discussions, then planning and collaborating

WITH the children for longer-term studies that follow their interests.

Whole group, small group, individual instruction, and learning centers are offered throughout the day. We do NOT use worksheets or workbooks because they are not developmentally appropriate. However, we have many writing opportunities for real purposes! We also do not use coloring books as children are given "blank slates" instead to CREATE with an abundance of supplies and mediums, rather than coloring outlined images. Teachers help children to find inspiration everywhere!

Our environment is considered the "third teacher" and it is thoughtfully planned. "Loose Parts" are available for open-ended play. We avoid overstimulating colors and too many commercially prepared posters and cartoons on walls, in favor of authentic photos and children's creations on display. Our classrooms are "print rich" so that children can be immersed in and manipulate the print in their environment. Over time our walls will also become filled with documentation panels, to make the learning visible.

Our Image of the Child is at the center of all we do. We respect and honor the children in our care. We see children as capable. Their safety, emotional, and physical well-being is our number one priority. Our experienced, responsive teachers and caregivers develop relationships with each child and family. Additionally, our seasoned staff members have been trained in Conscious Discipline. Behavior is viewed as a form of communication and children are never shamed or placed in "time outs". We do not believe in using whole group "behavior charts". Discipline is viewed as something we strive to gently instill IN children rather than do TO children.

We want every parent/guardian who leaves their child in our care, to have peace of mind, knowing they have made the best possible choice! 

Everything  with  Intention!