Our Curriculum
Our curriculum is child-centered, focusing on developmentally appropriate practices.
We use the High/Scope Educational Approach to guide teacher planning and our daily educational practices. We recognize that learning is an ongoing process that occurs at various stages and at different rates.
The High/Scope approach was developed in the 1960’s based on the work of Jean Piaget. We use our knowledge of child development to create active learning activities for our children that are age appropriate. We help our children become independent, responsible and confident learners. They gain knowledge and skills in math, literacy and the creative arts, which they experience daily.
Here’s a Look at Our Daily Schedule
Arrival
Children arrive at The King’s Daughters Day School between 6:30 and 9:00 am. To help keep everyone healthy and safe, children complete a screening process which includes a temperature check before entering the building. Upon arrival, children wash their hands before entering the classroom. Before breakfast, children choose an activity and play independently, or with friends.
Breakfast Time
Breakfast is served each day between 8:30a.m. and 9:00 am. Nutrition is an important part of our program because a good breakfast fuels the children’s day!
Morning Meeting
This is the time of day when the children gather together as a whole group. It may be for a story, a group discussion, a celebration, a movement and music experience or the sharing of play or work projects. Circle or large group times provide opportunities for children to exchange information. The children listen and talk with one another. This is an important way to learn from each other.
Small Group/Planning Time
Small group time is when teachers meet with children in a small group to work on particular skills, to do a project, or to discuss a particular topic. Small groups ensure that children receive individual attention based on the children’s needs and interests. After small group, children participate in a 10 to 15 process during which they plan what they want to do during work time. They decide on the area they’d like to visit, materials they’d like to use, and the friends with whom they’d like to play.
Work Time/Review Time
This is usually a 60 minute block of time where children get to carry out their plan. They visit different interest areas that are set up to teach new skills, improve communication, and develop coordination and problem solving. Interest areas include: House Area, Block Area, Reading & Writing Area, Art Area, Sand & Water Area, Math & Science Area, and Computer Area.
Outdoor Time
Outdoor play is an important part of our early childhood program. We have two onsite playgrounds which are divided into two separate areas for our infants/toddlers and preschoolers to play! Our playgrounds have four nontraditional play spaces; a music area, flower picking and butterfly gardens, and an organic vegetable garden. During inclement weather, our children can still play on our screened-in porches that service our classrooms.
Eating Time
After a full morning of activities the children have worked up quite an appetite. Our kitchen staff takes great care to insure healthy, nutritious, and well-balanced meals each day. All meals are served family style and children eat healthy meals together.
Nap Time
After a packed, fun-filled day, children are offered some time to rest. For those children who do not sleep, quiet activities are provided.
Snack Time
Small snacks are provided each afternoon including those prepared during the children’s weekly cooking activity.
Afternoon Activities/Pick Up
After snacks, children may play in interest areas and may go outside for play. During this period, children explore freely, bond with their friends and teachers while they get ready to go home.