Our Program Philosophy

	I have developed this philosophy through three elements: Experience, education and beliefs. I truly believe all of these aspects, when used consistently, lead to the best program and most well-adjusted children in the age group I work with.

	As an early childhood educator, I believe:
	Children thrive best in a family environment Children learn best and stay healthiest in a small group Children need consistency in caregivers Children need a stable routine Children benefit most from a daily return to child care Children always try to live up to reasonable expectations Children should be taught about God and build a relationship with Him at an early age Children are taught best by example Young children learn best through hands-on experiences Children need plenty of time to learn independently, need opportunities throughout the day to express themselves creatively, and learn ideas and concepts more thoroughly when reinforced through teacher direction Children should not be pushed in areas that they are not physically, intellectually, or emotionally developed to the point of expectation; however, children should be encouraged to grow and not stunted from developing Discipline (guidance) should be consistent and fit the action or behavior being disciplined Corporal (physical) punishment is not appropriate or acceptable in day care Children benefit most from their day care and early learning experiences when parents and teachers work cooperatively together Children should have plenty of learning materials available to them Children should start out early in life with appropriate responsibilities Children should be unconditionally loved by all caregivers