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Overall Philosophy
Stepping Stones Learning Center’s classroom programs provide
a unique learning environment for children with and without special
needs. Of prime importance is the match of values and goals between
families and staff. We are striving for an acceptance of diversity
and learning variances for children and adults participating in
the program. Positive adult relationships, along with rewarding
experiences for children and low adult to child ratios (below state
requirements) provide for a well-rounded program.
It is our belief that this program will instill values, encourage
enthusiasm and creativity and strengthen socialization while children
are engaged in the activities and routines of a stimulating classroom.
Enrichment activities including music and rhythm,
creative art and dramatic play, encourage active exploration of
the environment from the youngest crawling across the floor to the
oldest investigating the world around him. We promote curiosity,
individual interests, creativity, and the development of self-esteem.
The child’s ability to be a competent individual, increasingly
independent in action and thought is the overall objective.
In conclusion, Stepping Stones Learning Center’s philosophy
is to provide the finest possible environment for the safe, healthy
development of young children. Our highest priority is on the development
of self-esteem, confidence, and a love of learning.
What are the Program Goals?
- To provide a safe and nurturing environment
- To be an effective early childhood program which is developmentally
appropriate, child-centered, comprehensive, individualized and
family-focused
- To facilitate children having fun while learning to play with
their peers
- To stimulate the talents, abilities, strengths, and weaknesses
of all
- To respect and support all children in the context of their
family, culture, and developmental needs
- To be flexible and individualized when planning for communication,
cognitive, adaptive, motor and social needs of children
- To help children grow in curiosity, creative thinking and decision
making
Classroom Program Descriptions
Mom and Me “Lunch Bunch”
- Integrated play group providing opportunities to participate
in planned developmentally appropriate activities for caregiver
and child
- For children 15 months to 3 years old with or without special
needs who participate with a caregiver
- Taught by a dually certified special education teacher with
an assistant. A speech pathologist, music therapist and social
worker also provide support for the child and caregiver
- Excellent introduction to establishing peer relationships before
a child enters a formal classroom environment
- Activities to promote secure attachments and relationships are
of prime importance
- Individual speech therapy, social work, occupational therapy,
physical therapy also available if need is determined
Toddler Classroom
- Integrated toddler classroom providing developmentally appropriate
activities to reflect the interest of the whole child and develop
his/her social, emotional, physical and cognitive development
- For children 2 to 3 years old with or without special needs
- 18 children maximum
- Taught by a special education teacher with an assistant; speech
pathologist also provides support
- Parent involvement integral to child's overall improvement
-- parents encouraged to be part of center-wide parent activities
and may be asked to be parent helpers on as-needed basis
- Speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social
work and special education services also available on small group
or individual basis if need is determined
Enhanced Group through Early Intervention System
- For children 24 months to 3 years old with developmental challenges
who require significant time and attention from adults and has
approval from Department of Health to receive services
- 12 children maximum
- Taught by special education teacher with assistant and speech
pathologist
- Classroom environment utilized for therapy as a natural setting
for speech and language development and for more consistent generalization
of emerging skills
- Occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work and nursing
also available if need is determined
- Socialization with non-disabled peers through activities, center-wide
functions, and outside play
Preschool Integrated Classrooms
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