Some children require a few special moments with the teacher as they adjust to the routine of the day. A circle forms on the carpet and the teacher introduces the activities for the day. Children share information, play a circle game and perform a finger-play before leaving for the other activities. Throughout the day children are involved in hands-on activities in a stimulating environment taking advantage of their natural desire to move, touch, manipulate and explore new ideas. One child may observe and document how her plant grows while a small group of children works with a teacher dictating a group book for the language center.
Children move from active areas to quiet areas as their energy levels build and diminish.
A clean-up song is sung and children wash hands before they sit down to give thanks to God for a welcomed snack of cheese and crackers. With renewed energy, the children are ready to tackle the outside world of the playground. Climbers and balls are available to those with energy to burn. Books, art, sand, and water play are available for those who need to recharge. Children in the half day program will finish up projects and leave for the day, while those in the full day program prepare for a nutritious hot lunch to be followed by a much needed rest.