Our Curriculum
I use a mix of a play-based and more structured curriculum to create a developmentally appropriate approach to early childhood education that recognizes the importance of child-initiated play and exploration while also promoting learning and growth. Creating structure and routine within this environment fosters independence and helps a child feel secure as they are able to start to recognize what to expect on a day-to-day basis.
In a play-based curriculum, a caregiver provides a variety of materials and opportunities for play and exploration. These may include sensory materials like sand, water, and playdough; open-ended toys like blocks and dolls; art supplies like paint and crayons; and books and music. I have set up different play areas that include, a block/car area, an imaginative play/doll area, art station, gross motor/physical activity area, sensory table and a puzzle/fine motor area for child play.
I have a daily routine that facilitates learning, but also allows for unstructured play time. This may include outdoor play, indoor free play, and group activities like music and movement, story time, and circle time. I will encourage children to follow their interests and explore their environment, while also providing gentle guidance and redirection when needed.
More structured learning curriculum times that will also be offered throughout the day in the form of circle time and learning crafts/activities that meet Iowa Early Learning Standards. Infants will be offered gross and fine motor activities to help them work on developmentally appropriate milestones. "Parentese" will be used to help infants and toddlers develop speech and language skills. Toddler and preschoolers will work on pre-reading and prewriting skills, numbers, social skills, and everyday self-care/independent skills. Each activity will be altered to fit the age or skill level your child is currently at, or an alternate activity will be offered to younger children.
This blended approach recognizes that children learn through play, and that their natural curiosity and creativity should be encouraged and supported. It allows the child to develop their own interests and explore their own ideas; it supports the development of problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking, as well as social and emotional skills like self-regulation and empathy. While also adding in the vital learning skills and structure needed for school preparedness.
Please reach out if you have any questions.