High/Scope
Peachtree Childtown uses the High/Scope curriculum. High/Scope is a compilation
of best practices based on extensive research with young children and
how they develop socially, emotionally and cognitively.
The most recent findings of the 40 year High/Scope Perry Preschool Study
carried out by David P. Weikart, founder of High/Scope Educational Research
Foundation, indicate that children who attend active learning, developmentally
appropriate child development centers have a much higher probability of
being life long learners with interest in advanced learning. They are
also more economically stable, less likely to be involved in crime, and
more likely to graduate from college.
The High/Scope Approach to learning is based on the premise that all
children are active, capable learners and do best when they have a part
in planning and pursuing self-chosen tasks.
Teachers use assessment tools based on High/Scope, record specific developmental
milestones observed in the classroom, and provide feedback during bi-annual
parent-teacher conferences.
Infant Care
In the infant rooms, the curriculum allows for the individual interests
and needs of the child to be met throughout the day. As infants come into
the center, their individualized feeding and sleeping patterns are respected
and followed. As they continue in the group setting, the schedules begin
to come together as a group so that by the toddler age, most children
are eating and sleeping at about the same time, have exploratory play,
outside time, and small and large group times. Art and music activities
are planned daily. Storytime and active playtime are part of each daily
schedule as well as diapering time, personal one-on-one time with a caregiver,
handwashing, and eating times.
Preschooler Care
As children progress to the Preschool age they are introduced to numbers
and letters as well as words that label the various parts of the room
and items in the room. Children are given opportunities to explore using
the toilet and potty training is introduced when individual children demonstrate
an interest.
Children in the Preschool classes rapidly learn many ways to express themselves
in words, creative play, music and movement. They explore manipulative
learning materials that teach basic concepts of language and math. As
they advance to higher levels, they are encouraged to begin reading and
writing. Children explore a variety of books, interactive computer games
and various topics including science, social studies, art, sand play,
water play and active physical play. All classes have a schedule posted.
Teachers and children share their activities with parents on a daily basis.
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