The experiential base of mainstream activities for many children entering school is limited and often affects language development and the ability to learn concepts fundamental to kindergarten. Children in the preschool program average a developmental delay of fourteen to twenty-four months and exhibit English vocabulary and language expression delays that are correspondingly low. One major need addressed in the program is language development. Many children live on the Navajo reservation with primary exposure to the Navajo language only. Another area of need addressed in the program is parental involvement.
Some parents are reticent to enter their child's school or classroom.
Many remember negative experiences at boarding schools and may have had culturally insensitive teachers. Since parent involvement has an important and enduring impact on children's progress in school, staff strive to get parents involved at the preschool level. Close communlcation between parents and teachers is emphasized. Each parent is expected to visit the classroom at least once each semester.