The most important goal of our pre-school program is to help children become enthusiastic learners.  The pre-school teachers plan around weekly and monthly themes designed to meet the needs of all types of learners and encourage children to be active and creative explorers who are not afraid to try out their own ideas and experiment.  Our pre-schoolers are guided to learn at their own pace and in ways that are best for them.  Distinct interest areas have been created in each classroom – blocks, home living, art, science, table toys – in order to make choices clearer to the children.  The daily schedule also supports appropriate learning by providing a blend of teacher directed and child initiated activities, large and small group work and individual time.  At AppleTree Day School we recognize the importance of combining a well-designed curriculum with age appropriate learning centers and we understand how these two classroom components contribute to each child’s development.

Our outdoor activities are planned to help extend learning to the outside classroom.  Just as small muscle coordination is strengthened through puzzles, painting, and cutting, large muscle coordination is developed through outdoor play.  Learning cooperation and team building through games and planned activities helps the pre-school child understand effective physical and emotional management with his peers.

Each child develops at their own pace and we encourage communication between staff members and parents on the progress of their child.  Classroom teachers will update parents on activities, future class projects, and field trips.