Programme Description

From the moment the children arrive, we encourage them to do for themselves, where possible.  The teachers are ready and willing to help when needed.  After saying goodbye to Mom and Dad, the children hang up their bags and coats, then proceed into the room.  The first task is to make a choice: where will they begin?  Making choices is a very important part of our programme.  Children are all different, and come to us with different abilities.  The size of the problem or decision can be adjusted to accommodate the child’s ability and experience.  By beginning this way, we also allow children to start their day in a way that is comfortable for them.  Perhaps they love trucks or baby dolls.  Perhaps they would like to go to the art table where the teacher is, or find a quiet toy or puzzle, or maybe just look around.  However they begin, we do expect a certain amount to be accomplished during this first hour of the programme.  Each child is encouraged to take part in the art programme, science programme, physical education programme, and bathroom routine.  Also available at this time are the trucks and blocks, dress up centre, sand, water or other tactile materials, large toys, table toys and puzzles, puppets and books.  Children choose to go to these activities when they are ready.  The staff make sure that the art, science, physical education and bathroom routines are completed before circle time.  The children flow from centre to centre without group instructions being necessary.  There are no set groups.  This way, the children have the opportunity to get to know all of the other children.

We encourage children to spend time with activities, but only to their individual ability.  We change the activities on a weekly basis, which keeps their interest high.  Children are more likely to stay involved with an activity that is new, or one which they haven’t seen for a while.  Our centres, routines, schedule, and staff are all consistent, giving the children a sense of comfort and familiarity.

Mutual respect is a necessary component of our programme.  When children make choices, they learn that others will respect their decisions.  Sometimes they need guidance in thinking through a problem and making a good choice.  They also need to take responsibility for the toys and for their behaviour.  Putting a toy away is part of completing a task.  Waiting for their turn is part of their responsibility.  Using their own words to express their feelings in social situations is encouraged.  Behaving properly at each activity is expected and necessary, if they are to continue playing in that area.  Inappropriate behaviour is a choice, but leads to redirection to another area, and the inability to return to the problem area until later, or until the next day.