Curriculum

We have developed our own curriculum by combining the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards and Creative Curriculum to create a comprehensive set of developmental standards for our teachers to use. We are also a Pyramid Model Implementation site, which gives us a foundation for our program. We are play based, meaning all of our learning is happening through play. Our focus is on Social Emotional Development. The math, literacy, science, etc. is all happening, but we know that if a child can regulate their emotions and their bodies then they will be ready for learning. We believe that there are no bad emotions, but what do we do when we're feeling sad or mad? We coach our children through their emotions and give them tools so that eventually they are able to use those tools themselves to calm down and feel better. Our teachers use positive guidance. For example instead of saying, "no running" we say, "use walking feet". Our teachers observe where our children are at each day, and record their developmental milestones. They use these observations to create a portfolio for each child which the family gets to take home with them after graduation. They also use these observations to set goals for each individual child and plan lessons. We are in no way trying to push our children to grow up, but to ensure they are engaged and foster a love of learning in each of them. All of our classrooms 1+ will do group time each day, Rocco's Reflections (social emotional lesson), and a special activity.