Child Care Curriculum

My goal is for children to grow into independent, self-confident, and enthusiastic lifelong learners, developing strong self-esteem and positive attitudes toward exploration and learning so they're not afraid to try out new ideas or make mistakes.

I believe that children should be allowed to learn and grow at their own pace, and that a child-centered, play-based curriculum is the most appropriate and effective way for children to learn.

Play-Based Learning

Many people think “curriculum” only means planned activities, but it’s much more than that. A strong child care curriculum grows out of relationships, the environment, daily routines, and most importantly, the children themselves.

Although academics are being introduced at younger and younger ages, studies show that play is the best way for children to learn.

The majority of children's learning and development occurs spontaneously during child-led, teacher-supported play. Children are offered intentional learning experiences in thoughtfully prepared learning environments. While children are playing, teachers observe their strengths, interests, and previously learned knowledge or skills and plan new experiences and activities based on this information. Experiences and environments are constantly changing to support children's learning.

Our Approach to Learning

Our approach draws from several respected early childhood philosophies, including Montessori, Reggio Emilia, HighScope, and others. The Complementary Curriculum Approach © brings these philosophies together in a play-based curriculum that fits the unique needs of each child.

The Creative Curriculum for Family Child Care © complements these ideas with an emphasis on warm, responsive relationships, intentional environments, and play-based learning principles that have guided my program for years.

The Creative Curriculum system is considered "best practice" in the field of early childhood care and education. It corresponds with the Wisconsin Model Academic Standards, and the Common Core, and is closely aligned with Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS), which address all the domains of a child's learning and development from birth to school age.

Nature-Based Learning

In addition to play, our curriculum is nature-based. This means that nature is at the heart of almost everything we do. An intentional focus on nature both outdoors and indoors helps connect children to the natural world.