Central to our program is the belief that:

• children thrive in an atmosphere of trust; where they are provided with support, in a safe & gentle environment.
• a child’s self esteem and ability to learn are interdependent. That is, children succeed when they have a strong sense of self; therefore we believe it is important to foster a sense of competency and independence in all aspects of the child’s being.

Our classroom is a place where:

• your child is safe.
• your child is respected.
• your child is accepted for whom he or she is.
• your child will learn.
• your child is special.
• your child is loved.

Our teachers will:

• respect your child.
• celebrate your child's uniqueness.
• encourage your child.
• accept your child.
• help your child learn.
• give your child choices.
• follow your child's lead.
• guide your child to solve his/her own problems.
• love your child.

We will provide a play-based curriculum that:

• supports the development of the whole child - socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.
• allows for the recognition of each child’s unique learning style, abilities, and developmental level.
• allows for hands on learning, where the curriculum can emerge from the children’s interests, needs and desires; making learning concrete and meaningful.

EPC has a unique environment that includes an excellent adult to child ratio allowing for individual attention. We are proud of our quality programs. Examples of what play-based curriculum can provide for children’s development are:

Physical play: Physical play helps to develop an awareness of their bodies (balance, strength, coordination) and builds confidence.

Story time: Sitting quietly listening to stories develops the skills of concentration and attention, and is an introduction to the
wonderful world of books and reading.
 
Block building: Building is a bridge between the world of pretend and reality. It provides experience in spatial relationships,
opportunities for sharing, and develops large and small muscle control. Blocks also provide a pre-math experience (size and
shape sorting, balance).

Painting: Painting provides an opportunity for self-expression and enjoyment. The fun of creating is more important than the
end product.

Sensory Table Play: Play in these areas encourages experimentation in texture and measurement in a fun way. It also presents
early scientific and math concepts.

Play dough and clay: Modeling provides a release for aggressive feelings and offers general enjoyment.

Music and rhythm: These provide a means of self-expression through experimentation with songs, instruments, finger plays,
games, and dancing.

Dramatic play: This type of play is used to re-enact experiences and stories, fears and feelings. It allows children to try out
different roles and promotes cooperation.

Language communication: Communication and speech improve enormously at preschool. They are developed through all
forms of play.

Table toys (Manipulatives): Puzzles, beads, games, etc. These help a child to develop his hand-eye coordination, sequencing
skills, ability to follow direction, and concentration.

Cutting and pasting: These provide an experience in hand and finger manipulation as well as self-expression. When presented
with a variety of materials, shapes, textures, and objects to glue, children find an enormous amount of enjoyment in their creations.

Science table: Objects and experiments feed a child's natural curiosity about the world around them and expand general knowledge.

Edgewood Preschool Cooperative does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin.
Copyright Edgewood Preschool Cooperative