The following are answers to key questions relative to selecting the appropriate preschool program for your child:
What are you looking for?
I have been in Early Childhood Education for more than 20 years. I have my bachelor’s degree in education, and have worked in daycare centers, taught public kindergarten, and been invited to speak at several Early Childhood conferences.
As parents in the search of a quality program, you have told me you are looking for a social, yet educational experience. You want a physically and emotionally safe environment. You also want to know that the teachers have the necessary talents and skills to enrich your children’s curious minds.
How do you identify a socially enriched program?
You have to ask about “the unwritten curriculum.” Children are experimenting with independence and learning the fact they have a cause and effect on their environment. With this comes social responses like sharing, taking turns and knowing how to get their shovel back on the playground. Find out how the school intends on teaching communication skills during this critical time when your child is learning how to communicate effectively.
Along with this comes assertiveness training. Children learn how to identify and express their emotions effectively. Age appropriate, positive discipline teaches children how to use problem-solving skills in order to get their needs met without infringing on the rights of others. A positive, socially rich environment is very important for your child’s development.
Curriculum: What will my child learn?
The magic of a quality program is the teacher’s ability to make learning purely exponential! Scientifically, we know children learn best when they are moving and using all of their senses. A quality curriculum has as much breadth and depth as it does simple A-B-Cs and 1-2-3s. For example, science experiments, cooking projects and gardening activities offer a myriad of dendrite connections versus a worksheet of the letter Aa.
Such activities also provide opportunities for phonics, reading, mathematical and social skill building. Throw in a little Spanish and Sign Language, and you have an excellent recipe for genius! Meaningful experiences are stored in the long-term memory. It is in meaningful curriculum and experiences that your tuition becomes an investment.
Please visit Bridges Preschool and Kindergarten at bridgespreschool.com. Bridges has limited enrollment opportunities for the fall, as well as enrollment wish lists for future semesters. Our East Mesa campus offers affordable and professional preschool (starting at age 2) through private kindergarten. You are invited to call or tour at any time.
For more information, or to schedule a tour, call Bridges Preschool and Kindergarten at (480) 924-8008.