Why Center for Early Learning Preschool?

The Center for Early Learning is, and always has been, different from traditional preschools. Several key differences in our approach to preparing children for life-long learning set us apart.

*LEARNING THROUGH PLAY*

Our programs offer creative developmentally appropriate curriculum in all areas. We understand that children grow and learn at different rates and in different ways.  We accommodate different learning styles by providing many ways to do things.  The classrooms are arranged in learning centers with all material within the reach of children.

*OPEN ART PHILOSOPHY*

Open art promotes divergent thinking. It allows children to develop a strong sense of self, to communicate ideas non-verbally, and to resolve interpersonal conflicts. Open art supports sight discrimination, spatial awareness, eye-hand coordination, laterality and directionality, technical skills, and fine motor skills. Children’s art should be of their own creation, without the restrictions imposed by adult expectations. CEL offers only open-ended opportunities for exploration in the arts and sciences and never presents pre-cut art activities or coloring sheets for the children to use.

*METHODICAL DISCIPLINE POLICY*

Our discipline policy incorporates positive direction, positive reinforcement, forestalling, redirection, and natural and logical consequences. All of these strategies promote self-regulation and encourage children to work through their newly found emotions and conflicts by using words.

*A HEALTH SNACK POLICY*

A healthy body supports a healthy mind. Learning to make healthy choices is a skill that endures. We are diligent about recognizing allergies and food sensitivities. For more on our snack policy, click here.

*SECULAR APPROACH TO CURRICULUM PROGRAMMING*

We recognize and respect that not everyone in our community may share the same traditions, beliefs, or holidays. We teach children that celebrating special occasions and family traditions is universal while highlighting our commonalities and differences.

*LOW STUDENT:TEACHER RATIO*

Toddler/Guided Learners (2 year olds) 4:1

Independent Learners (3 year olds) 7:1

Pre-K Learners (4 and 5 year olds) 9:1

*COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF EACH CHILD*

In addition to the daily teacher-to-parent exchange at dismissal, each child at CEL is consistently observed and assessed on his/her learning process, culminating in parent-teacher conferences. Our assessment packets evaluate multiple facets of your child’s development: intellectual, physical, social, and emotional. Additionally, the director and staff are available for parent concerns anytime during the year. Parents are encouraged to visit the school to observe their child.

*EXTENDED BEFORE AND AFTER CHILDCARE*

The Early Birds and The Lunch Bunch – for additional information.

*PARENT INVOLVEMENT*

We encourage our families to get involved with our school community.  We invite them to serve on the various board committees, be involved with our fundraising efforts, field trips and other special events.  We also invite parents to share their special or unique talents in music, art or shared cultural experiences by in- class visits at various times during the year.