Curriculum
|
We believe that children learn best through hands-on exploration and play. Most recently we have adopted the research-based Curriculum, "Children Discover Their World", developed by the University of Maryland Center for Early Childhood Education. The curriculum supports our philosophy of a child-centered approach to education. Teachers plan lessons with the whole child in mind. Specifically, lessons are constructed to promote growth in the following key areas; social foundations, physical well-being and motor development, language and literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts.
On any given day, children have opportunities to create and experiment with paint, playdough, sand, blocks and more! Imaginative, pretend play in the dramatic play area leads to empathy and an understanding of community. Our Nature Explore classroom allows for authentic sensory experiences that teach us about our world, and it provides a place to build strong bodies through active, physical play. We allow children to make choices from a variety of interesting activities and outside exploration. A typical day begins with a welcome meeting where we will sing some songs and read a book together as a large group. We then have time set aside for smaller groups to meet with their teachers and work on investigations, math, and literacy games. There will also be free exploration of centers to promote independent choice. Snack and outside time round out the morning. As a Christian school, we honor faith development with a prayer of thanksgiving before snack and lunch, and we are reminded of God's love for us through bible stories at chapel time. Jesus' birthday is celebrated with songs during our lively Christmas program. We also practice service and outreach by collecting canned goods for a local food pantry. Our classes for 3-4 year-olds are designed to foster social and emotional growth. Children are encouraged to take turns, share with their friends, listen to a short story in circle time, learn words to communicate their feelings, make independent choices, and become confident in the culture of school. Our program integrates the 4 C's of 21st Century education: Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Creativity. Science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) activities are implemented in all of our classes. LUNCH BUNCH Children bring their lunch from home and eat together with their school friends. Parents should not pack food containing peanuts or tree nuts, including peanut butter. PLAY DOUGH RECIPE
2 cups flour 1 cup salt 4 Tbsp cream of tartar 2 cups water 2 Tbsp veg oil food coloring of choice 1. In a saucepan, mix flour, salt, cream of tartar, water and oil. 2. Add food coloring. 3. Cook over medium heat. 4. While cooking, stir constantly until mixture forms into a ball. 5. Remove from heat and knead vigorously until no longer sticky. 6. Store in an air-tight container or enjoy immediately! |
Chapel Time in First Lutheran's Sanctuary
|
