At the Early Education Center, we are always working to prepare children for beginning kindergarten as eager, confident learners. Our knowledge of child development provides a foundation for our teaching. We know that children learn best in an environment where their physical and psychological needs are met because they feel safe, valued as unique individuals, and are actively involved in acquiring new skills and knowledge. 

We use the Vermont Early Learning Standards to guide our curriculum development. If you would like to sign out a copy of the Vermont Early Learning Standards, it is in our family library.

Readiness is a child who:

• is happy because they like themselves and see themselves as a worthwhile person.
• expresses emotion and accepts hugs and signs of affection.
• listens when people speak to them, because people listen when they speak.
• loves to do the simple tasks they can do because they are proud of their abilities.
• wants to learn to do other tasks because they have succeeded and knows they will get the help they need to succeed again.
• asks questions knowing that they will be answered.
• speaks for themselves because they know that people think what they have to say is important.
• loves rhythm and sound.
• can sit peacefully for a short period of time to accomplish an activity.
• notices the differences between shapes and colors and who notices similarities.
• is eager to visit places and people outside the home.
• feels the thrill of being capable and is increasingly able to cope.
• can follow simple directions to complete a task.
• enjoys using new sounds, and finding the names of new things.
• can make simple decisions and live with them.
• has learned to identify a problem and to choose a solution.
• understands that their actions cause things to happen.

Things you can do at home to support your child's development:

Read Together Daily - Spend a few minutes each day reading with your child. It builds language skills, imagination, and strengthens your bond.

Encourage Independent Play - Let your child explore their creativity by playing on their own. Simple toys like blocks, crayons, and play dough are great for learning through play.

Talk with Your Child - Everyday conversations help your child develop language and social skills. Ask questions, listen, and talk about their day.

Create a Routine - A consistent daily schedule helps children feel safe and secure. Try to keep meal, nap, and bedtime routines predictable.

Limit Screen Time - The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:
Weekdays: Up to 1 hour of non-educational screen time
Weekends: Up to 3 hours of non-educational screen time.

Be sure to monitor what they watch and play.

Play Together - Make time to play and have fun with your child. It helps you connect and builds their social and emotional skills.

Get Outside! Outdoor play is great for physical and mental health. It helps children develop balance, strength, coordination- and it's fun!

Things we will do at school to support your child’s development:

We will:

• provide a safe and positive learning environment where your child’s self-esteem and uniqueness are supported.
• provide access to books and encourage reading.
• provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum to foster kindergarten readiness.
• communicate with families on an ongoing basis.
• make your child and family feel welcome and safe at school.