PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

The Family Tree offers a morning and afternoon Preschool Program with a full day component for those parents needing child care.  

The Preschool Program provides a developmentally appropriate curriculum based on the individual needs of the children served.  Each child is viewed as a unique person with an individual pattern and timing of growth and development.  The curriculum and adults’ interactions are responsive to individual differences in ability and interests.

Employing a thematic approach, the Preschool teachers prepare the environment for children to learn through active exploration and interaction with adults, other children, and materials.  Children are provided concrete learning activities with materials and people relevant to their own like experiences.  Children are encouraged and have the freedom to explore through play, self-directed and teacher-directed activities. 

The teachers support the Preschool children in developing independence, social skills, problem solving, language development, physical and emotional development, and self-directed behavior.  The varied choices of learning centers, inside and outdoors, for dramatic play, block play, quantitative and scientific discovery, art, manipulative play, woodworking, water and sand play, provide opportunities on a daily basis for solitary as well as group lay and nurture firm foundations for strong self-esteem and individuality. 

Development of self-help skills is an integral part of the curricular activities. Ability to dress and feed one’s self and independent toileting are facilitated through dramatic play, family style dining, and teacher and peer role modeling.

Socialization skills are facilitated by professionals who are committed to a developmentally appropriate program, who enjoy the company and thinking of young children, appreciating the unique qualities of this age group. The daily emphasis is on process and readiness is a by-product, thus enabling the child to become a confident, competent, creative thinker and decision-maker.