Stepping Stones Children's Center

The philosophy of an early childhood center largely influences the types of activities, curriculum, and the role of the adults at the center. Therefore, it is imperative that parents become familiar with the philosophy behind the center in order to understand the focus of the program. Our program focuses on the development of the whole child. What we mean by this is that we look at the cognitive, physical, emotional, social, and creative needs of the children. In the cognitive realm we believe that children progress from one stage of development to another (often with stages overlapping); they need time to feel confident and competent in one stage before they move on to another. Every child develops at his/her own pace and is are not rushed or hurried. To support and encourage this we work to provide the children with challenges they can master as they move from stage to stage. In the physical realm we also work on establishing challenges while giving children the time they need to practice a skill over and over so they have the confidence to take new risks. Supporting children¿s emotional and social development encompasses a large portion of our work. It is our belief that if you can teach children how to get along with each other, then you can teach them anything. Caring, respect, and sensitivity for oneself and others is modeled and nurtured and we believe that children are social learners connected to each other, their families, and their teachers. Individual differences are discussed and celebrated with families and teachers invited to share their home cultures with the program. We welcome home contributions to menu planning, holiday celebrations, book/ music selections, and anything appropriate to share with children as they are encouraged to use and share their discoveries to cement their learning and further the learning of their peers. In the development of the child¿s creative use of materials in unusual ways, divergent thinking skills are fostered by encouraging children to express themselves in at least ¿100 Languages,¿ i.e., dance, painting, drawing, clay, dramatic play, conversations. Our philosophy related to curriculum is multi-faceted. It is our belief that children learn best through hands-on experiences and play. We also believe the children need to have experience in making choices and self-selecting materials with a curriculum/daily schedule supporting these two ideals. Children are encouraged to follow their interests and those are an important focus of our program. Our learning and study about the Reggio Emilia, Italy, schools shapes some of our ideas in this area. Our curriculum is based on the interests of the children rather than being solely directed by the teacher. For example, after observing a child comparing colored leaves in the backyard, the teacher might offer a painting activity supplied with autumn colors or ask the children to assist in the making of these colors. This change of focus carries us in wonderful and unexpected directions. There have been projects about rainbows, mazes, and Little Red Riding Hood. There have been studies of seeds, families and the workings of the toilets! The learning of the children is much more meaningful when it comes from them where teachers and children become partners in learning through exploration together. From focusing on the rhythms of the children we have also learned to slow down our pace. We take time to let their interests evolve. We allow the projects to emerge and last for a natural lifetime- sometimes projects go on for months. A study might last a couple of days or ten minutes. Our work in small groups has deepened and enriched the children¿s experiences. Lastly, we feel that in order for children to grow they need a setting that is rich, inviting, comfortable, and safe. We look for materials that are aesthetically pleasing and stimulating.

Additional Information: Initial License Date: 06/02/2024; Sibling Discount Available; Area Description: Fenced Yard, Smoke Free; Program Meals: Allergy Awareness; 5 Star Center Based Child Care and Preschool Program - Licensed Provider;