Our Programs
Our child-centered program is based on providing age-appropriate experiences that will maximize each child’s development. The emergent curriculum is carefully planned by each teacher, taking into account the interests and capabilities of the group. Each classroom is set up in learning areas so that children can be involved with others in a small group setting. These centers include a block corner, dramatic play area, art area, music area, library, manipulative toys and puzzle area, water or sand table, and science, literacy and math centers.
Educational Philosophy
We believe that knowledge for young children is best acquired through the experience of exploration and discovery. Concept development takes place through the child’s own actions as he/she interacts with the materials, teachers, and peers in the classroom. Our aim is to enhance learning in all areas – cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and moral.
Our classes
Daily Schedule
1 / FREE PLAY
Children choose an area of interest. Teachers move from “center” to “center,” listening to and talking with the children, helping them where appropriate and making suggestions that will extend and expand their experience. Daily activities are structured around each child’s interests and developmentally appropriate skill building. Teachers always keep in mind that it is the child's discoveries and creativity that lead to learning and to the child's development of independence and self-esteem.
2 / CLEAN-UP TIME
As a part of teaching trust and responsibility all children assist with clean up.
3 / GROUP TIME
During this period the Teacher reads to children, followed by a discussion. This is also a time that teachers provide music and movement activities. Although music and movement are incorporated into the free play, “Group Time” is also a time for Teachers to lead in singing songs and in doing finger plays with the students.
4/ SNACK
Daily, the children bring a healthy snack and water (in a re-usable cup) for themselves.
5/ OUTDOOR TIME
Every day the children play outdoors, except in wet or extreme weather, when the all-purpose room is utilized. The Twos use the fenced-enclosed playground. The Threes and Fours have a choice of three outdoor play areas, our playground, the open grassy field and the wheeled toy riding area.
6/ ENRICHMENT
Good Shepherd offers programs in music, movement, sign language, and nature studies during the morning sessions. The music specialist meets with the children twice a month. The movement specialist meets with them once a month. The American Sign Language program meets twice a month with the four year olds. The environmental outreach program, The Nature of Things, brings live specimens to the students five times a year.
Sunshine Explorers Summer Program
Explore, grow, play + have fun in the sun with us
