Ages 3 - 5 yrs. Academic/Creative activities include lots of art projects (using mostly recycled materials), music classes, as well as science and cooking projects. We walk to the local library for story time and to check out new books. Dressing up and make-believe play is also a favorite. The children are given daily introductions to a variety of pre-k academic concepts and skills to help prepare them for kindergarten. Creative lessons are prepared to teach: counting, letter recognition, writing, colors and shapes, geography, nutrition, etc. We involve the children, as much as possible, in the creation of our curriculum so they are always inspired. Physical activity consists of daily walks through the neighborhood and to parks, outside play (swings, bikes, and play structures), climbing, hide-and-seek, picking up and carrying our local produce delivery to school, sports, dancing, yoga, skipping and running games. Gymnastics and Capoeira classes on Piedmont Avenue are sometimes added during the winter months on a rotating basis. We don't let the rain stop the movement. Cultural/Nature activities include field trips (via public bus, Bart, or teacher/parent volunteers) ventureing to places such as: children’s museums, Lake Temescal, animal farms, nature trails, aquariums, Fire Station 8, gardens, bakeries, plays/shows, athletic games, fruit orchards, parks, and any other fun or interesting children’s sites in our area. We enjoy daily walks through the neighborhood, which always involves meeting interesting people and picking sour grass. We observe and play in the environment we see growing around us. The children are involved in our school garden and the process of composting, as well as the daily care of plants. Frequent litter walks are one of the ways we teach the kids to be responsibe and respect the environment. Responsibility Responsibility for one’s self and actions is expected. The children will help with the daily tasks that are part of their day such as: cleaning up messes, washing hands, serving food, clearing plates, composting food, setting up beds and folding blankets, dressing, participating in group activities and resolving problems peacefully. Communication Good communication with everyone involved, including children, parents, and teachers is one of our essential goals. We let you know what happens during your child’s day and want to hear anything you wish to say. Children will be guided in learning how to speak to one another in a kind and intelligent manner. They will also learn to solve issues independently as much as possible. We love to hear the words: please, thank you, sorry, excuse me, and let’s talk about it instead of yelling, whining, or letting it stew. Involvement Family involvement in the program is encouraged. If you would like, please share ideas, skills, connections and more. This helps add to a stimulating community environment. Parents, friends or relatives are welcome to bring in your songs, recipes, stories, or unique traditions. Yeah, NO TV! There will be no television buzzing except for on weekend “Movie Night” which will be offered on occasion to give parents a night out. “Movie Night” will involve pj’s, pillows, popcorn, a flick, and bedtime stories.