Hillcrest Kids Early Learning believes it is in an atmosphere of relational warmth and security that children are free to grow and learn. We see every child as an individual and whole person who is a capable learner. We provide opportunities that meet the needs of the whole child – physical, cognitive, social-emotional, language, and spiritual.
At HK, we have chosen to follow the Creative Curriculum approach to Early Learning Education. We believe this curriculum encompasses our mission and philosophy of learning and, influences how our teachers plan, observe and decide what direction to take learning opportunities for children. This curriculum provides developmentally appropriate practices for all classrooms – Toddler (1-2 years), Transitional Preschool (2-3 years), Preschool (3-4 years) and Pre-Kindergarten (4-5 years).
Our teachers use a weekly theme or study to follow as they provide learning opportunities for the children in their care. Through learning centers, outdoor exploration and creative expression, children are given freedom to explore as they actively engage in their environment. Emphasis is placed on the process children take, in provided activities, versus the product. To document each childs development, we use a portfolio method in which teachers refer to a checklist of milestones to scaffold their lesson planning. Portfolios also include art work, photos and other projects that exhibit how children are learning and developing in the classrooms. Portfolios are passed along as the child moves up and are taken home their last day at Hillcrest Kids.
The Role of the Family
Families play an integral role at Hillcrest Kids and the in the development of their child. It is our goal to partner with families and invite them to be active participants in their child’s learning. Families are a valuable resource when it comes to sharing insights about their child’s interests, routines, abilities, strengths, and needs. We understand that each family unit is unique and we want to make sure each child, and family, feels welcome as we celebrate the beautiful diversity in our school.
The Role of the Teacher
The teachers main role, at Hillcrest Kids, is to implement quality early childhood education in accordance with Hillcrest Kids philosophy, in a safe, clean and loving environment. They do this by providing a pleasant, inviting classroom atmosphere in which children feel safe and secure. Teachers will be responsible for the ordered arrangement, appearance, décor, and learning environment for each classroom using the model from Creative Curriculum and the rating scale from Early Achievers.
Teachers will plan, write and implement daily activities to develop safe and healthy habits for children, as well as, post those plans and schedules for families to see what the children are doing during their day. They will also provide opportunities for children’s multiple learning styles in the environment, experiences, and materials. Portfolio, and developmental checklists, will be maintained by the teacher and will, in turn, assist in meeting the individual needs of each child in their care. Our teachers partner with families to gain feedback on the learning that takes place at home and in the classroom.