Philosophy

At Albany Preschool, children are treated with respect and direct their own play activities in a rich, varied environment. Professional staff and parents work together to create a child-centered program addressing the varied physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs of the children. Each day, children experience self-directed play in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. As they explore and manipulate their world, children gain confidence in their growing abilities. This learning is enhanced through conversations with other children and caring, involved adults. The role of the teachers is to provide a learning environment that is both challenging and nurturing. As a cooperative community of learners, Albany Preschool recognizes the importance of ongoing education for its adult members. Parent education, staff development, and parent involvement facilitates this learning.

Albany Preschool program aspirations:

  1. Provide a fun place where children can develop and learn at their own pace.
  2. Expand the emotional, intellectual, and physical ability of children through play-based exploration and experimentation.
  3. Guide children from dependence on adult input toward confidence in their own ability to make choices and set sensible limits for themselves.
  4. Maintain a safe environment where the emotional and physical well-being of each child is paramount.
  5. Develop mutual respect and cooperation among children, participating parents, and teachers.
  6. Maintain a high regard for the creative thinking process of each child.
  7. Respect the cultural richness of the school and encourage parents and children to share their own special family traditions.
  8. Weave literacy and early math activities throughout the curriculum.
  9. Promote friendship, fantasy, and laughter and encourage creativity in their play.

Benefits for the Children:

  1. Make friends.
  2. Grow more independent and capable.
  3. Explore and satisfy natural curiosity.
  4. Experience learning as a joyful process.
  5. Develop physical skills with a wide variety of toys and equipment.
  6. Learn to share and take turns.
  7. Build self-esteem.
  8. Respect for school environment.

Benefits for the Parents:

  1. Gain confidence in the parent-teacher role (as a parent, you are your child's first and most important teacher).
  2. Look at school challenges as positive opportunities for self-growth rather than as problems to be solved or avoided.
  3. See your child as a unique and capable individual.

A Strong Sense of Community:

A strong sense of community is an important part of the Albany Preschool philosophy. In order to foster community involvement both within our school itself and in our community at large, the school hosts the following community building and fundraising events: These events are held with the help of the city of Albany Parks & Recreation Department, as well as with the support of many generous local businesses.
Copyright © Albany Preschool 2003-2005
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