Children are provided with materials that encourage the development of the whole child - cognitive, social, emotional and physical. Opportunities are provided to participate in open-ended activities in which each child can feel successful and process is valued over product. Multi-age groupings are an integral part of the program. The returning children enjoy a real sense of homecoming and self-confidence as they become aware of what new experiences their continuing development makes possible. The younger children have role models in their older peers as well as the guidance of their caring teachers.
Teachers create the environment and model appropriate behaviors.
A project, unit or theme is selected each month that will be of interest to the children. It will add basic information, develop sustained interest and effort, and will act as a common experience for all children. It is then a focus of the classroom activities. Preschool children divide their morning experience between two classroom settings. Teachers rotate materials, introducing new ones, and reintroducing old ones.