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.