“Most of what children need to learn during their early childhood years cannot be taught; it’s discovered through play”
Philosophy
I believe that children learn through play. As a teacher, my goal is to provide a rich, supportive environment where children feel safe to explore, initiate learning, and feel free to express themselves. I see each child as a unique individual with the capacity to learn and make positive contributions to those around them. I am to support them as they embark on a journey to make discoveries about themselves and the world around them.
Little Seeds provides a safe, fun, educational environment! Activities during the day include: free playtime, structured play time, large motor playtime, small motor activities, story time, arts, crafts, music, dance, outdoor time, and more! Through guided and undirected creative play, children will have the opportunity to learn all about the world they live in.
Nature Play
I incorporate natural play into my teaching, allowing kids to be kids. I allow for supervised risky play and play with natural elements.
For example, In my outdoor space, you may find large sticks for children to play with. Some may see these as dangerous, I see them as an outlet for their creativity to shine- building forts, using them as kitchen utensils, a balance beam, creating a road, etc.
Indoors, in the play kitchen, you may find pinecones for food. To one child, it could be an apple, for another a sandwich, the list goes on and on! The material I use is intentional for children and allows for their wide imagination to shine.
I am continually learning more about the benefits of a nature based program and the use of natural material in an early education setting. My focus will be to continue implementing and learning.
OUR CORE VALUES
OUTDOOR PLAY
I firmly believe that kids belong outside! There is nothing better than the fresh air. The outdoors offers children so many learning opportunities and it is important for our children to learn the importance in taking care of our beautiful earth along with all the animals that live here.
HEALTHY EATING
Nutrition is the key to healthy brain development. All food is cooked in house with a wide range of ingredients. Children are encouraged to try different foods to widen their palette. I enjoy cooking and try to offer a variety of delicious meals!
EMPATHY FIRST
I put a large focus on allowing children to feel their emotions and helping them learn the right skills for calming down. I want children to know that their feelings are valid and normal. We all get big emotions and it is important for us to navigate these.