A VISIT TO THE PRESCHOOL
As
you enter the Center, you are greeted by a cascade of sounds emanating from
the classrooms. Music, ranging from Classical to Reggae fills the air. A child
giggles with glee because, It tickles when the teacher paints your feet. You
can hear shrieks of delight as a huge block structure comes toppling down
under the weight of that last block. Barely audible is the soft questioning
voice of a child asking for help. The teachers voices are calm, reassuring,
and encouraging in their tone. These are the sounds that beckon you to go
farther.
When you enter a classroom, you see diminutive furniture that ensures comfort and encourages independence. Children's art work adorns the walls; placed at the children's eye level so they can admire their handiwork. The children are scattered around the room, engaged in numerous activities.
Children may be bowling or tumbling on mats. You may even see a marching band
of children with their instruments. Perhaps some children are shopping for
dinner. You might even see a child perched on a ladder, with a teachers help,
painting a paper covered wall with a roller. Other children may be washing
dishes, bathing babies, measuring and pouring colored water. Still another
child may be painting a masterpiece on the easel; humming and swaying to the
rhythm of music. You may see another telling a story arranging felt pieces
on a board or listening to a tape as they turn the pages of a book. Yet another
may be staring intently at the monitor screen while clicking away with the
mouse. You may catch them cutting and sampling different foods, while offering
stories of family dinners.
Some children will be working on puzzles or creating their own art. You definitely
will see children and teachers semi-immersed in silly putty, playdoh, and
other goop that you can imagine. What better way is there to really learn
about it? The one lasting memory will be the excitement and joy radiating
from the faces of the children as they play. Parents are special, too. We
welcome their involvement. Newsletters are periodically sent home. There are
functions for parents and families. At least twice a year, parents and teachers
meet to evaluate the child's progress. Each child is unique and is special
in their uniqueness. We recognize this and respond to it.
Written by Linda J. Mayuski
