At Families First, every child has the opportunity to:
- Participate in activities that are both quiet and active, teacher-directed and child-initiated, and indoor and outdoor using a variety of equipment and materials
- Work and play in a safe, loving atmosphere with children of the same age, always under direct supervision
- Establish positive and caring relationships with both adults and other children
- Develop a curiosity for the world around them by asking questions, trying new ideas, providing input and feeling good about their efforts of response
- Develop a positive self-esteem which allows independence in the pursuit of learning through problem-solving and the confidence to try things on their own
- Challenge their physical and intellectual abilities
Physical Development
- Large muscle – climbing, riding, lifting, kicking, throwing balls, jump ropes, etc.
- Balance – games through the above methods and the balance beam
- Small muscle - manipulation of toys, craft projects, puppets
Intellectual Development
- Language – encouraging speech, conversations, reading books, storytelling
- Cognitive – problem solving, use of the alphabet, counting, colors, weights and measures, activities which use letters and numbers, calendar, time, nature and science activities, water and sand play, art and block play
- Creativity – exploration of art mediums, art activities, music and dance
Emotional Development
- Self-esteem – positive feedback and supportive environment
- Independence – participation in class planning, making choices and self help
Social Development
- Behavioral – discussion of rules, limits, and expectations through appropriate behavior in all aspects of the daily activities
- Interaction skills – small and large group activities, understanding the rights and responsibilities of others, diplomatic mediation, music, dance