The first years of a child’s life, from birth through age five, are the most critical in terms of educational development. In that year, a child’s brain triples in size, reaching 80% full-grown by age two, and nearly adult-size before entering kindergarten. Developmentally, these first few years are a time of great potential.
At Scottdale, our toddler classes are divided according to the ages of the children. The classrooms and playgrounds are carefully designed to promote safe exploration and learning. Teachers select developmental goals for each child based on their individual assessments. Teachers set up an enriched environment; plan activities based on children’s individual developmental assessments and then observe, evaluate, and extend children’s learning. Parents are actively encouraged to become involved in the program and classroom activities.
Curriculum
Using the Creative Curriculum, GELDS and NAEYC quality standards as our guide, our Early Care and Education program focuses on engaging children in active, hands-on learning that is appropriate to each stage of development. Daily activities include small and large group activities, individual classroom exploration, early literacy activities and outdoor play. Special attention is paid to helping children develop self-help skill, become good communicators and learn to resolve conflicts.
