Young Scholars Academy

Where Children Develop a Love of Learning

 5815 Tutt Center Point - Colorado Springs, CO 80922
 (719) 522-9099
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Finding a Quality Toddler Program

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Finding a quality toddler program for your child is a challenging task. As a parent, you want to ensure you choose a high-quality, enriching environment during these crucial developmental years. This article will guide you through what to look for in the best toddler programs.

Benefits of Toddler Programs

Enrolling your toddler in a high-quality toddler care program provides immense benefits for their development and future success. Such programs:

  • Builds social skills through interaction
  • Encourages independence in self-care
  • Stimulates cognitive growth
  • Develops gross and fine motor skills
  • Expands language and vocabulary
  • Teaches emotional regulation
  • Facilitates parental involvement
  • Allows exploration through play

Features of Top Notch Toddler Program

Curriculum and Learning Activities

A top-notch toddler program should follow a research-based curriculum aligned with state early learning standards. Look for a variety of hands-on learning activities that promote development across all domains—cognitive, physical, social-emotional, and communication skills.

Learning Through Play

The curriculum should emphasize learning through play, which is how toddlers explore and understand the world best. Make sure the daily schedule includes plenty of:

  • Child-directed free play
  • Teacher-guided playful learning activities
  • Music, movement, and sensory activities
  • Outdoor playtime

Well-Designed Learning Centers

Look for classroom learning centers that allow independent and self-directed learning. Dramatic play, art, blocks, reading, sensory tables, and manipulatives provoke curiosity and engagement.

Teacher-Child Interactions

 

Positive teacher-child interactions are vital for quality learning. Ensure teachers actively engage with toddlers during activities and playtime. Look for caring bonds, patience, and respect.

Child-Teacher Ratios

Ask about child-teacher ratios. For toddlers, a 4:1 ratio ensures effective interactions and safety. Small groups help teachers meet developmental needs.

Communication with Parents

Regular communication keeps parents involved and informed. Look for daily reports, conferences, newsletters, and informal chats.

Social and Emotional Growth

The toddler years are a period of intense social and emotional development. An effective program will nurture skills like:

  • Self-regulation
  • Expressing feelings and needs
  • Resolving conflicts appropriately
  • Cooperating with others
  • Building confidence and independence

Behavior Guidance

Ask how teachers manage behaviors positively. Look for modeling of emotions, using consistency and predictability, redirecting, and promoting self-soothing skills.

Safety and Security

When choosing a toddler program, safety is paramount. Ensure the facilities and practices meet all state health, safety and licensing regulations.

Hygiene and Cleaning

Proper hygiene prevents illness. Check for frequent cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces, toys, etc. Hand washing and diapering procedures should be stringent.

Security Measures

Look for secure access, visitor sign-in policies, surveillance, and emergency procedures. Ask how they handle child release to authorized adults.

Nutrition and Allergy Care

Ensure healthy, nutritious meals and snacks. Check accommodations for allergies and dietary restrictions. Look for varied, age-appropriate menus.

Enrichment Activities

The best toddler programs engage children’s developing minds and bodies through diverse enrichment activities. Look for:

    • Music and Movement: Dancing, sing-alongs, fingerplays, rhythm instruments, and music exploration.
    • Messy Play: Sensory experiences with sand, water, paint, playdough, mud, and more.
    • Physical Development: Activities to build large motor skills like running, climbing, throwing, and balancing.
  • Language Exposure: Teachers modeling rich language, reading books, and discussing new vocabulary.
  • Field Trips: Local outings to farms, nature centers, libraries, museums, and playgrounds bring learning to life.

Assessing a Toddler Program: Questions to Ask

When touring potential toddler programs, come prepared with questions about their curriculum, teaching methods, safety procedures, and enrichment activities. Here are some key questions to ask:

  • What curriculum and teaching philosophies guide your toddler program?
  • How do you build strong teacher-child relationships?
  • What are your teacher-child ratios and group sizes?
  • How do you cultivate social-emotional development at this age?
  • What are your policies and practices for health, safety, and security?
  • What enrichment activities and learning experiences do you provide?
  • How do you communicate with and engage parents?
  • Can I observe a toddler classroom to view your interactions and activities?

Choosing the right toddler program establishes a solid foundation for your child’s growth and school readiness. Use this guide to identify high-quality curriculums, enriching learning opportunities, and responsive teachers. Your toddler will reap the lifelong benefits of positive early learning experiences.

Our Toddler program

At Young Scholars Academy, we provide an exceptional toddler care program tailored to your child’s unique developmental needs. Our research-based curriculum delivered by loving teachers focuses on learning through play, exploration, and skill-building.

Program Highlights:

  • Designed for children ages 12-24 months
  • Toddler care classrooms tailored to developmental needs
  • Encourages exploration, creativity, music, stories
  • Focuses on cognitive, emotional, and physical development
  • Promotes gross motor skills with equipment like activity walkers, climbing mats
  • Introduces sign language and social skills
  • Breaks two-year-olds into 6 month age groups for appropriate learning
  • Incorporates Spanish, math, science, language arts into curriculum
  • Experienced child care teachers provide resources for school readiness
  • Ongoing communication with parents about child’s development and potty training
  • Overall focus on nurturing each child’s unique growth and emerging abilities

Contact Us!

Contact Young Scholars Academy to schedule a tour and see our enriching toddler classrooms firsthand. We urge parents to enroll their little ones early to secure a spot in our highly sought-after program. Your child will thrive in our stimulating and nurturing environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in a toddler curriculum?

Look for a play-based, hands-on curriculum aligned with early learning state standards. It should promote development across all domains: physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional.

How much time should be allotted for free play?

Experts recommend at least 45-60 minutes of uninterrupted free play per day. This child-led play facilitates exploration, creativity, and decision-making.

What are the optimal teacher-child ratios for toddlers?

A 4:1 ratio is best – no more than 4 toddlers per teacher. This allows for individual attention and strong bonding.

How can I evaluate teacher-child interactions?

Observe how teachers actively engage with children during activities and play. Look for patience, caring bonds, respect, and positive reinforcement.

What security measures should a toddler program have?

Secure access, visitor sign-in policies, surveillance cameras, emergency drills, and stringent child release procedures to authorized adults only.

What nutritious foods and snacks should be served?

Healthy and balanced foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins should be served. Foods and snacks should suit a toddler’s nutritional needs and accommodate allergies. 

What safety practices are vital in Toddler Care?

Stringent hygiene like sanitizing and hand washing. Licensed facilities, CPR training, first aid, up-to-date inspections, and emergency plans.

What enrichment activities are most beneficial?

Music, movement, messy play, physical activities, language exposure through stories and discussion, pretend play, and field trips.

What should I look for in high-quality educational programs for toddlers?

Research-based curriculum, learning through play, low ratios, caring and responsive teachers, safety measures, healthy nutrition, enrichment activities, clean facilities

Where can I find top-rated learning programs for toddlers near me?

Your search for quality toddler care near me ends with us. Young Scholars Academy offers a top-notch toddler learning program in Colorado Springs for children ages 12-24 months. Call us to learn more.

Infant Day Care: A Guide for Parents

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Choosing an infant day care is one of the most important decisions parents have to make. Finding high-quality infant care that meets your child’s needs is essential for their development and well-being. 

As a parent, you want to ensure your child’s care center meets safety standards, provides nurturing attention, and supports their development. You want to meticulously research childcare options to find a infant care program that meets these standards. You make sure that they actively support your kid’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development during these critical early years. 

This article will provide an in-depth guide for parents on what to look for when researching infant daycare centers.

What is An Infant Day Care?

Infant day care centers provide care and supervision for babies from 6 weeks to 12 months old. At a good infant day care, infants are nurtured in a safe, stimulating environment that supports their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Infant daycare teachers engage the babies with age-appropriate activities, games, and learning opportunities. Most infant daycare centers offer infants incorporate curricula designed just for infants to promote key developmental milestones.

Benefits of Infant DayCare

There are many benefits associated with high-quality infant care colorado springs. These include:

  • Socialization – Infants learn to interact with other babies and caregivers, developing social skills from an early age.
  • Cognitive development – Activities and games at infant child care stimulate brain development during this crucial window.
  • Routines – Infant child care provides a structure with regular nap times, feeding, and diapering. This helps infants establish healthy routines.
  • Parent networking – Infant care allows parents to connect with others going through similar experiences.
  • Safety – Licensed infant daycare centers ensure a safe, supervised environment for babies.
  • Work-life balance – Infant child care enables parents to return to work while their child receives quality care. Having your child in a social setting also allows you to rediscover your independence in the workplace!

Factors to Consider When Choosing An Infant Child Care

As a parent, you want to ensure you select the infant day care center that is the best fit for your family. Here are some key factors to keep in mind during your search:

Staff-to-Infant Ratio

Look for an infant daycare with a low teacher-to-infant ratio. A low ratio ensures your infant has their needs met more quickly thus building stronger relationships with their caregivers. Avoid ratios like 1:6, 1:7.

A high-quality program also employs teachers with high education specific to Infants & Toddlers like a Nursery Supervisor.

Caregiver Qualifications

Well-trained caregivers with specific infant experience are vital. Ideally, teachers should have credentials like a CDA (Child Development Associate) or degrees in early childhood education.

Program Structure

The infant daycare should have an age-appropriate curriculum that nurtures all aspects of development. See if they incorporate activities like reading, music, sensory play, and infant sign language.

Health and Safety

Make sure the infant child care follows strict protocols around sanitization, hand washing, diapering, and more. They should be licensed with background checks on all staff. Look for security features, too.

Family-Oriented Philosophy

Find an infant child care that involves parents and has an open-door policy. Clear communication about your baby’s daily activities is key.

Our team utilizes the Brightwheel App, A Daily Communication tool between parents and classrooms to both engage and communicate with families when apart. It’s great to have some insight into your child’s day!

Accreditation

Accredited infant daycares have met strict quality standards. Look for NAEYC accreditation or state-level accreditation.

Young Scholars Academy just recently went through the NAEYC Re-Accreditation process in July of 2023. Our Infant program specifically achieved a classroom score of 98%. A NAEYC Assessor documents teacher: child relationships, observations, lesson planning and portfolios.

Questions to Ask A Potential Infant Day Care

When touring infant daycare centers, come prepared with questions to help evaluate if it’s the right fit. Important questions to ask include:

  • What is the teacher-to-infant ratio?
  • What training and credentials do caregivers have?
  • How many infants are assigned to each primary teacher?
  • What curriculum do you use for infants?
  • What activities and learning experiences are offered daily?
  • How do you communicate with parents on a daily basis?
  • How do you handle discipline and redirection with infants?
  • What steps do you take to keep infants healthy and safe?
  • Are you accredited? If so, by whom?
  • May I have a copy of your handbook/policies?

Warning Signs of a Poor Quality Infant Day Care

While touring infant child care centers, keep an eye out for any red flags that may indicate substandard care. Watch for things like:

  • High teacher-to-infant ratios
  • Old, worn toys and books
  • Lack of diapering facilities and separate infant rooms
  • Visibly sick children or lack of health policies
  • Unsecured entryways or lack of security features
  • Unwelcoming staff who seem stressed or overwhelmed
  • Dated infant equipment like cribs, bouncers, etc.
  • Lack of communication from staff or resistance to parent involvement

Paying attention to these details will help reveal lower-quality infant daycares to avoid.

Trust Your Instincts

In the end, parents know what is best for their infant. Trust your instincts when something doesn’t feel right at a potential infant child care. Keep looking until you find the center where you feel completely comfortable and confident leaving your baby.

With the proper infant child care, parents can feel at ease knowing their child is safe, happy, and nurtured during the critical first year of development. Taking the time to thoroughly research infant child care centers in your area is a worthwhile investment. The payoff is finding a caring environment where your infant can learn, grow, and thrive.

Visit Young Scholars Academy Infant Day Care

Our infant daycare colorado springs provides a nurturing, engaging environment where infants can grow and thrive. With a low teacher-to-student ratio, age-appropriate curriculum, and focus on communication, we encourage the cognitive, physical, and social development of young children. 

Call us today to schedule a visit or enroll your toddler. Also, get in-depth knowledge about day care costs and our offered infant day care programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What qualifications should infant daycare teachers have?

Infant caregivers should have specific training and credentials in early childhood education, like a CDA (Child Development Associate) or a degree in the field. This ensures proper knowledge of infant development.

2. What curriculum and activities should an infant daycare offer?

A high-quality infant daycare will have an age-appropriate curriculum incorporating activities like reading, music, sensory play, infant sign language, and games for physical and cognitive development.

3. What health and safety standards should I look for in an infant daycare?

Only choose licensed infant daycares with strict protocols for sanitization, hand washing, diapering, and more. Background checks on staff and security features are also essential safety standards.

4. How can I evaluate the quality of an infant daycare program?

Look for NAEYC or state accreditation, indicating the center meets high-quality standards. Also, observe the teacher-to-infant ratios, caregiver qualifications, curriculum, and safety policies.

5. What are some red flags to watch out for with infant daycares?

Beware of high teacher-to-infant ratios, lack of safety/security, visibly sick children, unengaging staff, outdated infant equipment and toys, and poor communication with parents.

6. Why is infant daycare good for my child’s development?

Quality infant daycare provides socialization, cognitive stimulation, healthy routines, and safety during the critical window of infant development. This nurtures their physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth.

7. How can I ease separation anxiety when starting infant daycare?

Look for infant daycares with policies that support transition and separation anxiety. Things like gradual drop-offs, comforting items from home, and constant communication can help you and your baby adjust.

8. What questions should I ask when touring potential infant daycares?

Important questions include teacher credentials, curriculum details, daily communication methods, health/safety policies, accreditation status, and discipline techniques. Ask for a copy of their handbook.

9. How much does infant daycare cost on average?

According to 2021 data, the average cost of full-time infant daycare in a center ranges from $215 – $495 per week. Prices vary by state, city, and individual center. Ask about ways to reduce costs, like sibling discounts.

Junior Kindergarten Demystified: What Every Parent Should Know

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As a parent are you wondering what is Junior kindergarten? Junior kindergarten gives 4-5 year olds an extra year to learn key skills before normal kindergarten. It builds on preschool to get kids ready for elementary school. This article explains what junior kindergarten is and why parents may choose it.

 

What is Junior Kindergarten?

 

Jr kindergarten Program is an early education grade. Some schools provide it the year before standard kindergarten. It’s usually for 4-5 year olds with fall birthdays. Junior K adds more structure than preschool. Kids focus more on early reading, writing, math, science, and art. This gets them ready for real kindergarten demands.

 

Jr kindergarten lets kids learn by playing, exploring, and being active. Small class sizes mean teachers can support each kid’s needs. The lessons teach core skills and values to help kids in later grades.

In-Depth Look at the Jr Kindergarten Curriculum

 

The junior K curriculum focuses on advancing skills across all developmental domains. It fully prepares students for the higher demands of kindergarten and beyond. Key subject areas include:

 

Early Literacy

 

  • Letter recognition, phonics, and letter-sound relationships 
  • Vocabulary building and oral language development 
  • Listening skills, following directions, and comprehension 
  • Understanding, interacting with, and making inferences from books 
  • Early writing, including name, letter formation, and sentence writing 
  • Identifying story elements like characters, setting, problem/solution 

 

Math

 

  • Counting, number sense, and quantity comparison 
  • Basic shapes, spatial awareness, and pattern recognition 
  • Sorting and classifying objects by attributes 
  • Simple addition and subtraction 
  • Intro to measurement and graphing 

 

Science

 

  • Nature topics like plants, animals, seasons, weather 
  • Physical properties and behaviors of common objects 
  • Cause and effect relationships and scientific testing 
  • Observing natural phenomena and descriptive discussions 

 

Social Studies

 

  • Community helpers, roles, and services 
  • Families, diversity, culture, and sense of belonging 
  • Following rules and being a responsible citizen 
  • Geography basics like maps, landforms, bodies of water 

 

Arts, Music, and Movement

 

  • Experimenting with varied art materials and techniques 
  • Singing songs, exposure to musical concepts and instruments 
  • Coordinated movement, games, and dance 
  • Dramatic play and theater to express creativity 

 

Social-Emotional Growth

 

  • Taking turns, cooperating with peers, solving problems 
  • Developing friendships and relating to classmates 
  • Regulating emotions, attention span, and behavior 
  • Following multi-step directions and classroom routines 

 

Junior K lessons remain playful and hands-on, using games, songs, stories, and movement. They engage students while reinforcing learning across disciplines. Small class sizes and low student-teacher ratios enable personalized attention. They support each child’s diverse needs. The curriculum establishes both essential competencies and character development. It will benefit students throughout their education.

Jr Kindergarten vs Preschool

 

While junior kindergarten builds upon preschool lessons, some key differences include:

 

  • Increased focus on academics – more formal pre-reading, writing, math, and critical thinking skills are introduced. 
  • Longer days – full school day schedule rather than just a few hours. 
  • More teacher-led instruction during circle time and direct lessons. 
  • Introduction to regular assessments to gauge student mastery of skills. 
  • Field trips and enrichment programs like art, music, or PE. 
  • Emphasis on kindergarten readiness skills and independence. 
  • Seamless transition into kindergarten since it’s housed at the same elementary school. 
  • Social growth through collaborating with the same group of classmates all year. 

 

Preschool concentrates more on unstructured play, socialization, and general skill exposure. Junior K adds more structure, academic rigor, and kindergarten preparations to the preschool foundation. The routines also get children accustomed to the realities of a full day of grade school.

 

Benefits of Jr Kindergarten

 

Junior K offers many benefits for young learners:

 

Extra Year to Grow Up

Added time lets younger kids improve focus, independence, listening, and handling emotions. This aids learning.

Individual Support

Low teacher-to-student ratios help teachers encourage each kid’s strengths and needs.

Builds Skills for School

Junior K teaches kids how to act in class, make friends, and get a head start on pre-academics. This preps for future grades.

Eases Preschool-Kindergarten Move

The extra year transitions kids from preschool freedom to big kid school structure.

Reduces Kindergarten Stress

An extra year lessens kindergarten struggles for kids who need more skill practice.

For many young students, junior K paves the way for a happy, successful kindergarten year.

 

Key Questions to Ask When Researching Junior Kindergarten Programs

 

When exploring prospective jr kindergartens, important questions to ask administrators and teachers include:

 

  • What does a typical daily schedule and routine look like? What academic subjects and enrichment activities are included? 
  • What is your teacher-to-student ratio and typical class size? 
  • How do you support the development of early literacy skills like phonics and writing? 
  • What math and science concepts are introduced? How are they taught? 
  • What social studies and social-emotional learning are emphasized? 
  • How does the junior K curriculum help prepare students for kindergarten at your school? 
  • What methods of assessment are used to gauge children’s skills and progress? 
  • How frequently do teachers communicate student progress and issues with parents? 
  • What safety and emergency procedures are in place? 
  • What credentials, certifications, and ongoing training do junior K teachers have? 
  • Is before/after school childcare available onsite? What are the hours and costs? 
  • Are there any volunteer or parent participation opportunities? 

 

Visit prospective junior K classrooms to observe teacher-student interactions and instructional approaches firsthand. High-quality programs welcome parents to visit, ask questions, and participate in the classroom. These interactions and your own intuition will reveal much about the learning environment.

 

Signs Junior K May Help Your Child

 

Consider junior K if your kid:

 

  • Struggles with letter recognition, phonics, or listening. 
  • Has trouble focusing or handling feelings. 
  • Seems less mature than peers socially or emotionally. 
  • Shows delays in speech, language, or motor skills. 
  • Is relatively young for their class, with a late summer birthday. 
  • Transitions slowly to new routines and gets overwhelmed easily. 

 

Talk to preschool teachers about any development worries. Junior K builds important abilities.

Finding the Right Fit

 

Focus on small classes, experienced teachers, and a warm environment. Tour schools to see programming and teaching approaches. Watch your child try a mock class activity. For public junior K, register through your district early as spots fill fast. Check private school options, too. With a thoughtful search, you can find the ideal junior kindergarten for your kid.

 

At Young Scholars Academy daycare in Colorado Springs, we’ve provided excellent junior K programming for over 15 years. Our devoted teachers, hands-on lessons, and caring manner help each student thrive. Visit our welcoming classrooms to see happy students engaged in learning. Contact us to learn more about our top-rated jr kindergarten. Nurturing your child’s potential starts here!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. What is junior kindergarten?

 

Jr kindergarten is an extra year of schooling before kindergarten. It is for 4-5 year olds to develop academic and social skills. It builds on preschool with more structure.

 

2. What is taught in junior kindergarten? 

 

The jr kindergarten curriculum focuses on early literacy, STEM, and social studies. It also focuses on art, music, physical skills, and social-emotional development. Lessons prepare kids for kindergarten.

 

3. How does junior kindergarten benefit children?

 

Benefits include improving maturity, individual skill building, fostering the classroom, and enhancing communication skills and emotional skills. Other benefits are easing the transition to elementary school and preventing kindergarten struggles.

 

4. What is the difference between preschool and junior kindergarten? 

 

Jr kindergarten adds more academic structure with increased focus on pre-reading, writing, math, and critical thinking than play-based preschool.

 

5. What are signs my child needs junior kindergarten?

Signs include difficulty with literacy or motor skills or trouble focusing/regulating behavior. Other signs are seeming socially or emotionally immature.

 

6. Does my child repeat Jr kindergarten or go to kindergarten?

 

Most kids attend just one year of jr kindergarten before kindergarten. Evaluate your child’s skills and maturity to determine if a second year would help.

 

7. How much does jr kindergarten cost?

 

Like preschool, costs vary between state-funded, private schools, and independently operated. Tuition ranges from free to $5,000+ annually. Financial aid may be available.

 

8. When should I enroll my child in Jr kindergarten? 

 

Register 6-12 months in advance of the school year. It ensures you get into your desired program, as spots can be limited. Public jr kindergarten has even earlier deadlines. 

 

9. What questions should I ask when choosing a jr kindergarten?

 

Ask about the curriculum, teacher qualifications, class size, and teaching methods. Also, learn about safety procedures, facilities, tuition costs, scheduling, and kindergarten programs offered.

 

10. How do I prepare my child for junior kindergarten?

Read books about school, practice classroom routines, and build independence in self-care. Also, arrange playdates and coordinate with the child’s teacher to introduce kindergarten skills.

The Best Pre K Curriculum for Early Learning Success

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Choosing the right pre k curriculum is one of the most important decisions parents must make for their children. The pre-kindergarten years, between ages 3 and 5, are critical for developing foundational academic, motor, and social-emotional skills. The right curriculum provides stimulating activities and learning experiences that nurture young children’s natural curiosity and set them up for success as they transition to elementary school.

Overview of Popular Pre-K Curriculum Models:

Several pre-k curriculum models are commonly used in early education programs across the United States. Here is an overview of the most popular ones:

 

Montessori Curriculum:

The Montessori method emphasizes self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and collaborative play. Key features include:

 

  • Multi-age classrooms with 3-6-year-olds so younger children can learn from older peers
  • Child-sized furniture and learning materials to promote independence
  • Long 3-hour work periods with uninterrupted blocks of time to engage in self-chosen tasks
  • Specially designed hands-on Montessori materials that isolate specific skills and concepts

 

Studies show Montessori pre-k improves executive function, social cognition, and mastery orientation. However, critics argue extended work periods may not align with all young children’s shorter attention spans.

 

Reggio Emilia Curriculum: 

This Italian import focuses on self-expression through visual arts and the environment as the “third teacher.” Hallmarks include:

 

  • Project-based learning and in-depth exploration of topics driven by students’ interests
  • Natural materials like clay, paint, and wire encouraged to represent ideas
  • Documentation of student work via photos, videos, and portfolios

 

The Reggio approach has been linked to gains in creative thinking, symbolic representation, and language development. However, some find it overly unstructured and hard to implement within American school systems.

 

HighScope Curriculum:

Developed in Michigan in the 1960s, the HighScope method champions active participatory learning. Distinctive features are:

  • Plan-Do-Review process where students make activity plans, carry them out, and review them afterwards
  • Child-initiated activities based on interests with guidance from teachers
  • Daily routines alternating between small and large group times

According to studies, HighScope helps build cognitive skills, cooperative play, and conflict resolution abilities. Critics contend it requires high teacher skill and quality classroom environments to work well.

 

Creative Curriculum: 

This comprehensive framework integrates interest areas, instructional practices, and assessment tools. Components include:

 

  • 38 research-based objectives for development and learning
  • Learning environment equipped with a variety of materials and activities
  • Guidance on knowing each child fully and adapting teaching to their needs
  • Mighty Minutes transition activities between more extended activities

 

Research shows that Creative Curriculum boosts language, literacy, math, and social skills. However, some argue it overemphasizes teacher-directed instruction compared to other models.

 

Young Scholars Academy Pre K Colorado Springs integrates Creative Curriculum into our pre-k program. With its emphasis on hands-on investigation and play-based learning, we have found it to be an excellent framework that engages students while supporting them in building critical academic and developmental skills. Our teachers enhance Creative Curriculum with thoughtful customization and responsive instruction tailored to each child.

Best Practices for High-Quality Pre K Curriculum:

Beyond adopting a particular branded curriculum, many daycare centers follow certain best practices to ensure pre-k learning is developmentally appropriate and impactful:

 

Prioritize Play-Based Learning:

Young children learn best through hands-on experiential play, not paper and pencil tasks. Constructive play builds cognitive, physical, social, and emotional competencies. The most effective pre-k curriculums immerse children in dramatic play, block building, and sand/water tables.

 

Focus on the Whole Child: 

Pre-K curriculum should nurture all aspects of development – academic, motor, and social-emotional skills – in an integrated way. Activities that combine math, literacy, and collaborative skills promote well-rounded growth.

 

Promote Communication and Social Skills: 

Preschool years are a crucial window for language development and learning social-emotional intelligence. A Curriculum should be language-rich, filled with music/songs, conversations, and cooperative play.

 

Offer Flexibility and Choice:

Rigid schedules and cookie-cutter activities limit young children’s self-determination. The best curriculums balance teacher-directed time with opportunities for child-led exploration based on interests.

 

Feature Hands-On Investigation 

Direct sensory encounters make concepts stick at this young age. It should have activities that maximize touch, movement, and manipulation using diverse, open-ended materials.

 

Assess via Observation and Documentation 

Formal testing is inappropriate in pre-k. Teachers should gather continuous observational data on children’s progress through notes, photos, videos, and portfolios.

 

Factors to Evaluate When Choosing a Pre K Curriculum & Program

Selecting the right preschool goes beyond curriculum to encompass factors like teacher quality, class composition, and physical environment. Here are some key considerations for parents:

 

Experienced Teachers

Well-trained pre-k teachers make or break program quality. Look for lead teachers with bachelor’s degrees and certification in early childhood education. Strong teacher-child interactions facilitate learning.

 

Favorable Teacher-to-Student Ratio: 

The best preschools maintain a maximum ratio of 1 teacher to 8-10 students. Lower ratios enable individual attention to be essential at this age.

 

Multifaceted Classroom Areas 

Look for distinct interest areas for blocks, dramatic play, library, sand/water, art, music, etc. This allows for differentiated activities and learning stations.

 

Outdoor Play Area 

Children should have daily outdoor time for extensive motor activities and fresh air. Ensure the playground is safe and sized suitably for the number of students.

 

Staff Continuity 

Consistent teacher-child relationships provide stability and boost social-emotional growth. High teacher turnover is a red flag.

 

Peer Interaction 

Classes with mixed age groups promote natural mentoring between older and younger kids. Dynamic peer interactions enrich development.

 

Developmental Assessment System

Regular observation-based assessments ensure that the curriculum is responsive to children’s evolving needs and interests.

 

Age-Specific Learning Goals by Domain

While curriculums should take a comprehensive approach, certain developmental milestones and learning goals exist for pre-k children ages 3 to 5.

 

Literacy

  • Recognize letters and connect them to sounds.
  • Listen to stories, poems, and rhymes with increasing attention.
  • Begin writing letters and your own name.
  • Start identifying words and concepts of print.

 

Math

  • Count up to 20 and higher.
  • Understand numerical operations like adding/subtracting.
  • Categorize objects based on traits.
  • Start recognizing shapes, patterns, and positions.

 

Science

  • Observe natural phenomena with curiosity.
  • Explore living things like plants/animals and their habitats.
  • Investigate objects and materials using all senses.
  • Conduct simple experiments

 

Arts

  • Engage in process-based art activities like painting, clay, and collage.
  • Sing a variety of songs and participate creatively in music.
  • Pretend play and role-playing.
  • Develop fine motor coordination through drawing sculpture.

 

Physical Skills

  • Advanced locomotion abilities – running, jumping, hopping
  • Throw, kick, and catch balls and other objects.
  • Develop balance and coordination via obstacle courses.
  • Practice self-help skills like dressing, zipping, and feeding.

 

Choosing the ideal pre-k curriculum in Colorado Springs for your child

Are you living in Colorado Springs and looking for a top-notch preschool with a premier pre-k curriculum? Young Scholars Academy is the perfect fit.

 

Young Scholars Academy utilizes a state-of-the-art Pre-K Curriculum to nurture children’s whole development across academic, physical, and social-emotional domains. Their teachers are warm yet knowledgeable guides, facilitating hands-on exploratory learning tailored to each child’s needs and interests.

 

At Young Scholars Academy Pre K in Colorado Springs, you’ll find a language-rich environment and research-backed balance of activities – from robust outdoor playtime to inquiry-based science experiments to literacy circles and math manipulatives. Their play-centered Pre k in Colorado Springs integrates seamlessly with targeted skill instruction to create joyful, engaging learning.

 

Contact Young Scholars

Visit Young Scholars Academy for a tour and see their Pre k curriculum Colorado Springs in action. Observe the multifaceted classroom areas, child-friendly furniture scaled to size, and diverse materials that spark the imagination. Outdoor time on their spacious playground also promotes active movement and social bonding.

 

Make sure to ask about their low student-teacher ratio of 8:1, which enables individual attention so vital at this age. Their experienced teachers form warm relationships with students, assessing development through close observation, documentation, and portfolio records. Continuous feedback ensures children’s emerging abilities are nurtured right where they are.

 

To learn more about Young Scholars Academy’s progressive pre k in Colorado Springs or schedule a visit, call (719) 522-9099 or contact them via their website. Invest in your child’s foundational learning – their admissions team is happy to discuss how Young Scholars Academy’s dynamic curriculum will prepare your child for school success and beyond!

 

Conclusion 

Early childhood is marked by rapid growth across all areas of development. The pre-k years from ages 3-5 represent a window of opportunity to boost school readiness through enriching, play-based learning experiences. During this critical window, choosing a high-quality curriculum delivered by trained teachers ensures stimulating activities tailored to your child’s unique needs and interests.

 

While hotly debated, certain curriculum models like Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and HighScope have distinct philosophies that foster multifaceted skills when implemented effectively. Look for programs that blend the best evidence-based practices – hands-on exploration, child-directed play, responsive facilitation, and observation-based assessment. Factors like teacher expertise, class composition, and learning resources are vital in selecting the right preschool.

 

Investing in a thoughtful pre-k curriculum with enduring benefits pays off as children transition to elementary school and beyond. Partnering with programs like Young Scholars Academy provides the nurturing head start today’s children need to maximize their inherent potential as lifelong learners.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What do children learn in pre-kindergarten? Here are answers to some common questions parents have:

 

1. Can kids in Pre-K write?

Pre-writing skills begin in pre-k as children practice holding pencils and tracing letters and shapes. By age 4-5, they may start writing letters and words. Fine motor development is critical during pre-k.

 

2. Do kids learn math in Pre-K?

Yes, pre-k introduces foundational math concepts like numbers, counting, shapes, patterns, measurement, and comparison. This lays the groundwork for addition, subtraction, and more complex math.

 

3. Do Pre-K students have homework?

Structured homework is not appropriate for pre-k children. However, teachers may provide optional extension activities related to classroom topics at home with parental supervision.

 

4. What happens in a Pre-K classroom?

A typical pre-k day involves:

  • Circle time.
  • Stations for learning centers.
  • Story time.
  • Arts and crafts.
  • Music and movement.
  • Outdoor or gym time.
  • Snacks.

 

Both child-guided play and teacher-led group activities occur.

 

5. Do kids learn to read in Pre-K?

Pre-K builds early literacy skills like letter recognition, phonics, listening to stories, and concepts of print that precede conventional reading. By age 5, some can read essential words and sentences.

 

The pre-k years lay the foundation across all domains of development. An enriching play-based curriculum taught by skilled early educators sets children up for success in elementary school and beyond.

 

6. What is the ratio in a Pre K classroom?

The recommended maximum class size in pre-k is around 16-20 students, with a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:8-10. Lower ratios are even better to allow for individual attention. Multiteacher classrooms may accommodate up to 24 students.

 

7. What is the difference between preschool and Pre-K?

The main difference is that pre-kindergarten (pre-k) is more academic and focused on early literacy and math skills needed for kindergarten readiness, while preschool programs tend to be more play-based. However, there is overlap:

  • Preschools enroll children ages 3-4 years old, while pre-k is for 4-5 year olds.
  • Preschool typically lasts for 2-3 hours each weekday morning. Pre-k usually runs for 4-6 hours per day, 4-5 days a week.
  • Preschool teachers may have less formal education requirements compared to pre-k teachers.
  • Some preschools follow a specific approach like Montessori, while pre-k curriculums align more closely with upcoming elementary academics.
  • Preschools cost less on average than pre-k programs. Pre-k is free in some public school districts.

Both quality preschools and pre-k programs help prepare children for kindergarten through nurturing social, emotional, cognitive, and motor development. Pre-k offers more formal skill-building for the year immediately preceding kindergarten.

5 Reason Young Scholars Is the Best Childcare Center in Colorado Springs

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As you embark on this rollercoaster ride of parenting, one of the crucial decisions you’ll make is finding the best childcare center in Colorado Springs for your little bundle of joy. Fear not, for we are here to navigate through the maze of ratings and statistics, leading you to the crown jewel of childcare centers in Colorado Springs, CO, the esteemed Young Scholars Academy!

 

Why Childcare Centers Matter

 

Before we dive into the juicy details, let’s spare a moment to appreciate the importance of a top-notch childcare center in Colorado Springs. These havens of learning and fun serve as stepping stones for your child’s future success. They help shape their personalities, build social skills, and spark a love for learning that will last a lifetime. So, let’s embark on this adventure and discover the shining star in this constellation of childcare centers in Colorado Springs.

The Great Ratings Race

 

In our quest for the ideal and affordable daycare Colorado Springs, we stumbled upon a treasure trove of ratings and statistics. Amidst the glittering sea of contenders, one name shone brighter than the rest – Young Scholars Academy! With consistently glowing reviews and a reputation that’s the envy of its peers, this establishment has certainly earned its spot at the top.

 

The Secret Sauce of Young Scholars Academy

 

What makes Young Scholars Academy daycare Colorado Springs the chosen one? Let’s unveil the secrets that have won the hearts of both parents and children alike.

 

1. Experienced Educators At The Best Childcare Center In Colorado Springs 

 

Young Scholars Academy childcare center in Colorado Springs boasts a team of seasoned educators who are passionate about nurturing young minds. Their enthusiasm and creativity sprinkle a touch of magic into every child’s day, making learning an enchanting journey.

 

2. A Whimsical Wonderland of Learning

 

At Young Scholars Academy childcare Colorado Springs, learning is anything but mundane. Each day is a thrilling adventure filled with games, arts, and interactive activities that keep young minds engaged, entertained, and forever curious.

 

3. Safety First 

 

Always As protective parents, your child’s safety is of paramount importance. Young Scholars Academy shares this sentiment and maintains a secure environment where you can rest easy knowing your little explorer is in safe hands.

 

4. Tapping into Technology 

 

Embracing the digital era, Young Scholars Academy harnesses technology in a constructive and educational manner. With age-appropriate tools, they encourage a healthy balance between screen time and traditional play.

 

5. Community of Caring 

 

Beyond being just a childcare center, Young Scholars Academy is a supportive community of parents and educators who work hand in hand to cultivate the best in every child.

 

Young Scholars Academy vs. The World

 

Now that we’ve unearthed the treasures that set Young Scholars Academy apart, you might wonder how it compares to other contenders. While many centers offer great facilities, Young Scholars Academy goes the extra mile in building a holistic foundation for your child’s future. From academics to emotional intelligence, they’ve mastered the art of cultivating well-rounded individuals.

 

Final Words: Childcare Center In Colorado Springs

Dear young dads, as you embark on the exciting adventure of parenthood, remember that finding the best childcare center is a crucial first step. Young Scholars Academy childcare center in Colorado Springs stands tall amongst the competition. They combine fun, education, safety, and a sprinkle of magic. So, whether your little one dreams of becoming an astronaut, a scientist, or a superhero, Young Scholars Academy is the best daycare Colorado Springs has which offers a launchpad where those dreams take flight.

 

Take a tour, experience the wonder with us. Let your child’s journey towards greatness begin at Young Scholars Academy daycare Colorado Springs CO. After all, the world is waiting for the next generation of young scholars to dazzle and amaze!

 

Disclaimer This article is not sponsored. It’s purely an independent review based on research and recommendations from parents. These parents who have experienced the magic of Young Scholars Academy firsthand.