Our Philosophy of Education

 

 

We believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating environment in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is our desire as an Early Learning Center, to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, active, and invites a sharing of ideas. 

 

There are three elements that we believe are conducive to establishing such an environment:

 

• The teacher acting as a guide

• Allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning

• Promoting respect for all things and all people.

When the teacher's role is to guide, providing access to information rather than acting as the primary source of information, the students' search for knowledge is met as they learn to find answers to their questions. For students to construct knowledge, they need the opportunity to discover for themselves and practice skills in authentic situations. Providing students access to hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce the lesson being studied creates an opportunity for individual discovery and construction of knowledge to occur. 

Equally important to self-discovery is having the opportunity to study things that are meaningful and relevant to one's life and interests. Developing a curriculum around student interests fosters intrinsic motivation and stimulates the passion to learn. One way to take learning in a direction relevant to student interest is to invite student dialogue about the lessons and units of study. 

 

When the voice of each student is heard,  the environment becomes one where students feel free to express themselves. We believe children have greater respect for their teachers, their peers, and the lessons presented when they feel safe and sure of what is expected of them. In setting fair and consistent rules initially and stating the importance of every activity, students are shown respect for their presence and time. In turn they learn to respect themselves, others, and their environment. Teaching provides an opportunity for continual learning and growth. We recognize a need for compassionate, strong, and responsible individuals who are dedicated to working with children. In our competitive society it is important for students to not only receive a solid education, but to work with someone who is aware of and sensitive to their individual needs. 

 

In addition, Kidz Rock Early Learning Center is dedicated to providing a warm and loving family environment for children. With our smaller size, we are able to give quality, individualized care to families at affordable prices.  When possible we offer various discounts and vouchers to help with the overall cost of care. 

 

As we view the Center as a family, the importance of family bonds cannot be understated; siblings are encouraged to interact with one another, and we want everyone involved - children, parents, and staff alike - to feel like they are part of our extended family.

 

Children here are encouraged to be children; we do not believe they are small adults. The individual progress, growth, and development of every child is important to us. The environment at the Center promotes learning while having fun during the process. Through a mixture of hands-on experiences, group activities, and individual play, our children develop the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical skills necessary for all aspects of life and growth.

 

Parent comments and suggestions are encouraged and are taken into serious consideration as we continually adapt to new challenges. The children are not the only ones who are engaged in the learning experience - all of our staff and parents also learn from the children.