Patterson Preschool

OVERVIEW

Our classes are designed to suit the needs of children 3 to 5 1/2 years old. Groups are divided according to age and development. Sept 1st is the cut-off date for meeting age requirements.

* A registration fee of $75 is required at the time of enrollment. This fee is non-refundable.

GOALS

To promote each child’s:

• Positive self-concept as an individual and as a group member
• Social development (cooperation, sharing, consideration of others, honoring differences, etc.)
• Appreciation of learning and self recognition as a learner
• Excitement for the learning process
• Enjoyment of school
• Positive emotional, cognitive and physical development

To promote each parent’s:

• Development and confidence in parenting and group cooperation skills
• Understanding and involvement in the educational process
• Social network of families with young children

CURRICULUM

We believe in providing a hands-on, play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum, based on current knowledge of early childhood education.

Children can learn through their own play, grow at their own pace, and feel that school is a good place to be. We involve the whole child in the active learning process, and provide them with a rich environment.

The preschool day provides a large amount of self-directed time for the children to explore, create and socialize, as well as some directed small group times to facilitate active learning.

SCHEDULE

A daily routine provides children with the comfort of knowing what to expect. As the year progresses children gain an understanding of their classroom and a trust in their environment, their peers, adults, and themselves.

The Daily Schedule

CONFLICT

Patterson Preschool provides an environment which is active and stimulating. When children are involved and enjoying their environment there is little need for discipline.

The teacher facilitates the children in their learning of appropriate classroom behaviors through routine, dialog and role playing as well as being active in the children's play. The environment and the teaching methods work together to prevent the need for discipline.

When conflict arises between children it is looked at as an opportunity to problem solve and enhance communication skills. Again, the teacher is an active facilitator and model of these appropriate behaviors and is involved in the process.

Corporal discipline and time-outs are not used in our classroom.