Teaching philosophy

Our program is very nurturing and rhythmical in nature. Activities are planned at the same time each day, rotating through the week. This rhythmical element ensures a strong sense of consistency, order, and security which is essential to the healthy development of the young child. Everything that is done in the classroom has a purpose, instilling a sense of joy and care for every task. The atmosphere is homelike and the focus is on play. The preschool room is structured to offer a variety of play activities, both individual and group.

During the morning and afternoon outdoor play time children have ample opportunity to move their bodies - they run, jump, dig, sweep and play with water and buckets. 

In play, children create the world anew each day, and try on every imaginable situation within it. They build houses and ships, rockets and fire engines. They explore life in homes and farms, forests and mountains, underwater and in outer space. All of this is initiated by the children, with occasional help from the teacher. They create their play worlds using the simplest of materials, such as logs and stumps, stones and shells, cloths and play stands, even tables and chairs. In the course of play their growth in all areas is stimulated physically, emotionally and socially, mentally and spiritually.

General cultivation of a sense of wonder engender in the child an unconscious appreciation for the sciences which the child will discover later. Weekly walks to the community garden provide opportunity for sensory exploration and introduction to the idea of sustainability without being overly intellectual about it. There are two community gardens within walking distance to Sunset Sprouts that we visit regularly. 

Children with their teachers also grow herbs and vegetables in our own organic garden. 

Everything presented must be true in its essence.