The classroom environment is set up to reflect this theme which makes it possible to organize the physical space so that major changes in materials, books, manipulatives and dramatic play accessories do not need to be made each time a different program is in session. Themes are selected based on what teachers know about the needs, interests and experiences of the young children and families enrolled in the program. Teachers set up classroom areas with theme-related materials and plan a variety of large and small group activities that reinforce concepts associated with the current theme. Collaboration among children and teachers in group activity is seen as an integral part of the learning process. As children engage in this theme-based curriculum, teachers assess current levels of understanding, and provoke further investigation by providing additional materials and activities.
Teachers observe children at play and in interactions with one another.
They engage children in conversations, investigate events and explore materials with them. Through these observations and interactions, topics of interest to the children are pursued through small group project work. Again, collaboration among children and teachers is encouraged. Teachers assess the children's knowledge and understanding of the topic and, over a period of several weeks, plan and implement a series of small group activities, each intended to reinforce, challenge, or expand upon what was learned in previous activities. It is our intention to provide a safe and nurturing environment which supports growth in all areas of development and responds respectfully and enthusiastically to children's needs and interests.