The Growing Tree

Preschool Class

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Our program is based on Reggio Emilia & Maria Montessori's methods.

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The Growing Tree Preschool Curriculum and Classroom Structure is largely based on Reggio Emilia Philosophy which states that: 

⇒ Children must have some control over the direction of their learning; 

⇒ Children must be able to learn through experiences of touching, moving, listening, and observing; 

⇒ Children have a relationship with other children and with materials in the world which they must be allowed to explore; 

⇒ Children must have endless ways and opportunities to express themselves; 

⇒ Children must be given opportunities to explore, observe, hypothesize, question, and discuss to clarify their understanding 

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Preschool is an important building block for your child’s future. For many children it is the first time they will be away from their parents. They will begin to become responsible for themselves and their behavior. 

 

Primary goals of the year are: 

⇒ To help develop independence and to promote positive self-esteem

⇒ To work on large and fine motor skills developing coordination

⇒ To increase language skills (receptive/verbal) through rhyme, rhythm, reading, singing, etc.

⇒ To encourage a love of literacy through books

⇒ To work on academic skills such as counting, writing, and letter recognition

⇒ To develop speaking and listening skills through circle time, carpet time, and show-n-tell. 

⇒ To familiarize children with the environment & staff of P.J. Gillen Elementary School.