| Room Layout & Program Transitions
Children are moved into new classrooms based on an assessment of developmental readiness and space availability. Parents are notified at least one week in advance when a child is scheduled for graduation. All developmental information is transferred to the next classroom. We encourage parents to partner with their child’s teacher to ensure a smooth transition.
Infant Rooms
Each infant room practices the DHS recommended ratio of one care provider for every four infants. Our infant rooms do not exceed eight infants. We value our partnership with ChildServe approved volunteers. Our Ames center has partnered with the Foster Grandparent program for many years. This special extension brings our care to an even more individualized level as there are more loving arms open for your little one.
Toddler Rooms
Our toddler rooms are structured around the developmental needs of young children, ages 12 months to 24 months. We maintain a ratio of one care provider for every four children. At our Johnston Childcare Center toddlers are encouraged to participate in our music therapy extension partnership, once a week at the center. The children are able to explore and create music of their own beat with real instruments and a board certified music therapist.
Two-Year Olds
The age of two is not so terrible! We provide a nurturing environment to meet the quickly changing needs of these young children. At this age our children are able to continue with the music therapy extension and their daily schedules increase with the Creative Curriculum foundations. Classroom group times are integrated within the morning and afternoon schedules. Children are encouraged to parallel play within established centers. Weekly themes help build interactive learning and partnerships with families. One of the ways we partner with families is to encourage a successful experience with potty training for our little ones.
Preschool: Threes, Fours, and Fives
Upon entering the preschool wing children experience the next level of Creative Curriculum and kindergarten readiness. Children are encouraged to communicate with peers, share, engage in interactive play, and participate in group centered activities. Most of all, children explore through play and have fun in a safe and interactive environment!
Extra curricular activities increase with the preschool experience. On Tuesdays and Thursdays Partners in Dance puts the kids in motion. Field trips also bring an introduction to the community. We visit our friends at Bishop Drum and Martina Place monthly to sing songs and share special projects. Each classroom sends home a monthly newsletter and calendar to keep your family up-to-date with all of the scheduled events. |