Preschool

Philosophy and Practices

Social emotional development is the foundation for all learning.

St. Mary Preschool is a play-based program where children choose activities based on their current interests. The term “play-based” is often interchanged with “child-centered”.  The play-based classroom is broken up into sections, such as a home and kitchen, science area, water/sensory table, reading nook, space with blocks and other toys, or other areas such as writing and art.  Every month we will have a new theme that we use in planning the curriculum and changing the areas in the classroom. We believe that children learn to interact with each other and the world through play.  Children naturally explore their environment, experience cause and effect relationships, form thought and make decisions.  Teachers will create fun engaging small center activities and encourage the children to play and learn, facilitating social skills along the way. Even though it seems like they are just playing, they are learning valuable skills, including important social skills and cooperation with others, early reading and early math.  As inquisitive learners, children naturally learn important academic lessons while engaging in cooperative play.  

Our goal is to provide a safe and stimulating environment that fosters wonder, surprise and speculation.  We encourage children to explore and interact in their environment.  We provide the foundation for successful achievement in learning by developing an excitement and enthusiasm for learning through self-confidence.  Socialization skills, such as listening and being listened to, interacting with other children, treating others with respect, sharing, taking turns and expressing their feelings verbally are very important and will be developed.  Expressing our Catholic Faith through role modeling and daily activities will give an introduction to a faith-based environment.