3 Years to Young 4 Year Olds
Welcome to our Pre-K 1 Classroom!
About the Class and Classroom
We emphasize learning through play. Our room is setup in well-defined play centers which promote child-directed activities, independence, and decision making. The centers in our room include art, dramatic play, blocks, manipulatives, reading, science and discovery. The toys and games are switched often to provide diversity and maintain interest. Our daily schedule is created specifically for this Pre-K 1 class.
Our Goal
Our goal in this classroom is to foster a stimulating and exciting learning experience for your child. We have an open door policy at TOG, so please feel free to share any questions or concerns you may have. We would be thrilled to have your child in our class!
Curriculum
By using the Creative Curriculum, we will discover all areas of study including math, science, social studies, music, history, geography, and language arts. We will begin exploring and learning basic phonics concepts including, letter recognition letter sounds, name recognition, colors, and simple shapes. These basic skills are the building blocks necessary to prepare your child for Pre-K 2. We will also continue to foster the development of your child’s motor skills through large muscle movement activities and fine motor development activities.
Lunch and Snacks
Our lunch and snacks are served in the classroom Family-style. The children learn table manners by sitting in their chairs, using napkins, and cleaning up after themselves. We encourage children to try a taste of everything on their plate before leaving the table or getting seconds on other food. Just like at home, sitting together for meals is a great way to bond and socialize with each other. If your child has food allergies, feel free to bring a healthy alternative. Snacks and lunch are included in your tuition.
Nap Time
Naptime is directly after lunch each day. We ask that you send a fitted crib sheet and a blanket which will fit comfortably into their cubbies. Lovies (naptime friends) are okay to bring from home as long as they are stuffed animals or baby dolls that don’t talk or make noise. We turn on relaxing music to help the children rest, as well as pat their backs if needed- whatever helps them feel comfortable. Those children who wake up early or do not tend to sleep during naptime will be allowed to look at books or do a quiet activity on their rest mat.
Outdoor Play
Outdoor play is an important part of your child’s development. Our outside playtime is scheduled two times a day, weather permitting. Because we are very active, we would like the children to dress comfortably. Please understand that your child might get dirty from time to time. Washing hands and faces is always stressed, but send your child in clothes you are not concerned about getting soiled. Closed-toe shoes should be worn to protect your child’s sensitive feet from blocks, and other toys. Sandals are very frustrating for your children if they cannot walk or run at ease on the playground. Remember, send your child to school in comfortable clothes and shoes so they will be free to move about. Also, remember to dress your child according to the weather.
Guidance Used in the Class
Our goal in guidance is to teach the children independence and good decision making. When an inappropriate behavior occurs, we first talk to the child and emphasize appropriate behavior. For example: John is throwing blocks. We would say, “Blocks are for building.” If John does it again, we will model correct actions with the child by using as much positive reinforcement as we can. The child can then take their focus away from being in trouble and think about what they did. We will then discuss how they can handle certain situations in a positive way. Time-out is used as a last resort, and we individualize guidance for each child. One of the biggest strategies we use is offering choices, which shows the children we respect their ability to think for themselves.
Classroom Visits
At The Octopus Garden we have an open door policy. We are always excited to share with you what we are learning! If you would like to visit, please try to give notice to your child’s teacher to help ensure a positive visit and minimal interruption to our daily routine.
We hope to see you soon!