Children learn on their feet, not on their seats!
– Margaret Puckett –
Having had the opportunity to work with young children for many years, I have realized that children are incredible learners if they are able to use all of their senses to explore.
Each child acquires knowledge in different ways. Some are active learners, some need to do things over and over again, some need to make mistakes and try different approaches. Some learn through modeling. Some need materials, visuals and relevant life experiences. It’s my goal to observe children in my program and gather information needed to develop an appropriate curriculum.
Because young children stem their education best through creative play, at Smiling Faces, the curriculum will nurture and foster the following areas:
Language Development
During circle time and continuous interactions, childrean will learn to use language effectively (conversation, problem solving, needs of self and others, etc.). Their vocabulary will be increased through songs and stories. All languages will be respected.
Social and Emotional Development
Facilitating group play will foster healthy attitude and feelings with other peers and adults. Children will develop personal relationship and learn how to cooperate in group settings. Children’s self image and esteem will be enforced through positive praises and encouragements.
Physical Development
To strengthen both gross and fine motor skills. Gross motor is coordination, physical fitness and body awareness. Fine motor is using the hands and fingers to effectively hold crayons, markers and pencils and to cut with precision. These skills will develop toward steps in writing in drawing.
Cognitive Development
To foster a child’s ability to learn by exposing them to letters, numbers, colors, shapes, science, nutrition and health through creative play. Some activities will be teach directed according to the child’s interests. To offer challenges and experiences to develop critical problem solving skills.
Use of Technology/Television
A computer is available to introduce age appropriate games to incorporate cognitive development (or just have fun). TV will only be used occasionally to view educational programs such as Dora, Barney, Blue’s Clues, etc. Research has proven that too much exposure to television can hinder a child’s development and lead to behavior issues. Social interactions with peers, adults, family and friends will increase awareness of themselves and their world in a positive way.
Outings and Field Trips
During nice weather, the provider will take the children on occasional walks around the neighborhood or take them to the Sea Breeze park. This will be done during the Outdoor time stated on the daily schedule. The provider would also like to plan for field trips within the community and will ask parents to sign a permission slip. During these special events parents may be asked to participate. The provider offers before/after school care and therefore your child may be transported during drop off and pick-up time.
Discipline
It is against the law to inflict harm to any child. Physical punishment or humiliation is never permitted at Smiling Faces. The provider is a qualified preschool instructor holding a Child Development permit awarded by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing in Sacramento.
The provider will model appropriate interactions. When there are conflicts among children, the provider will help the children resolve differences by using redirection and encouraging use of language to communicate. The provider will help children to make choices, take turns and share.
If a child experiences prolonged behavior difficulties, the provider will discuss the problem with the appropriate family members.
A child who may constitute a safety or legal hazard to themselves, other children or the staff will need to see other assistance. Therefore a termination of services may apply.
