Self Development Preschool (SDP), located at 1721 N. Greenfield Road, focuses on all aspects of childhood growth and development.
Upon entering the school, it is easy to understand why Harrison, a 3-year-old, joyfully bounces through as he goes to his classroom.
In the 2-year-old room, children are building airplanes from colorful blocks. Teachers are sitting on the floor among the children and interacting with the individual children about their masterpieces. These types of purposeful and meaningful interactions are critical in aiding language acquisition and vocabulary development of toddlers.
American flags made by the children are displayed proudly on the walls. Teachers at SDP make certain the children are exposed to an enriched environment through fun and creative activities.
Cynthia P., a parent of two children at the school, remarked that her children love coming to the school. “The growth and progress has been amazing,” she said. Building positive experiences, which encourage children to build strong foundational skills and social relationships with peers, is an important part of SDP’s program.
Throughout the school, posters with positive messages, such as Passport to Success and Learning Is a Journey, reinforce encouragement and a strong sense of self. SDP teachers value and respect the children through a balance of nurturing and engaging students in the skills necessary to ensure success in school.
Parents often rely on the feedback from their children to judge the quality of the preschool experience. Sarah, a parent of two children, described SDP as brilliant. When asked why she chose SDP, she explained, upon touring the school, she immediately noticed the emphasis on learning in a caring atmosphere. After enrolling her children, she is extremely pleased. “They tell me all about their day, and absolutely love coming [to preschool],” she said. “Each time my children transition to a different age group, they fall in love with each teacher. It is such a wonderful experience in a consistent environment that provides excellent care and education.”
Most SDP teachers have been with the school for several years. Consistency is a critical component, which enables the children to feel safe and secure. “It is so wonderful that they go and tell their former teachers goodbye at the end of the day,” Emilyn remarked.
Children often give the best example of what makes a great school. A trio of school-age children attending SDP’s summer camp for older students eagerly shared their experiences. Adele, Kirsten and Kendall remarked they liked the teachers. When asked to elaborate, one of the girls said, “They give us some freedom, and we can choose our activities, yet they keep us safe.” The girls mentioned they loved the annual talent show, ice cream parties, and working on math skills in fun creative ways, so they don’t forget their school subjects.
Interestingly enough, when asked how they liked the meals, another of the girls spoke with enthusiasm. “We’ve never brought our lunch here,” she said. “The food is so yummy!”
Speaking with the students validated SDP’s reputation as an excellent choice for younger children, as well as school-age children.
SDP is now accepting part-time and full-time enrollment for children ages 2 and up. To schedule a tour, please contact the director, Vernetta, at (480) 396-3522.