Building Blocks Preschool & Pre-K Classrooms
Preschool & Pre-K Classroom Philosophy
Preschool educators at Building Blocks shape their classroom environment and embrace the concept of the environment as a “third teacher.” We rely on the sustainability of both traditional hands-on learning materials, such as manipulatives and loose parts, as well as resources for children to document and convey their ideas. By intentionally selecting sustainable and culturally appropriate resourcest, we empower children to grasp environmental concepts, encourage sustainable habits, and cultivate their roles as responsible global citizens.
Preschool & Pre-K Classroom Curriculum
In every classroom, our Pedagogical Principles: The 3 E's approach is customized for each child across three key areas: Engagement, Exploration, and Empowerment.
Our Emergent Curriculum is child-centered and evolves based on the interests and ideas of the children. Building Blocks educators closely observe children's play and interactions to identify emerging themes and incorporate these into the curriculum. Learning is child-directed but teacher-facilitated; educators pose questions that in turn encourage children to discover the answers themselves. This approach promotes flexibility and responsiveness to children's developmental needs.
Building Blocks educators are responsible for establishing and maintaining a classroom environment that features distinct and inviting learning areas that align with learning goals and curriculum. Each learning area within the classroom is clearly defined and thoughtfully arranged to create an engaging and appealing space for children, promoting active participation and supporting the objectives of our educational curriculum while prioritizing kindergarten readiness for all students.
Art Area
Let’s get messy! In our dedicated art space, children are provided opportunities to expand their creative expression, imagination, and fine motor skills. Introducing more structure to these activities will begin to prepare children for more advanced approaches to art in kindergarten and beyond.
Block Area/Manipulatives
Inspired by our many STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) activities, our blocks/manipulatives area encourages children to utilize critical thinking to bring their visions to life. Social skills are also refined through a sense of collaboration with fellow friends – an important skillet to carry into kindergarten and beyond!
Dramatic Play Area
Let your imagination run wild. Running a flower store, becoming a fire-fighter, seeing patients at the doctor’s office – this area is dedicated to enhancing creative expression, social role-play, verbal skills and storytelling skills through the power of play. In bringing this imaginative play to life, children will refine their problem-solving skills and recognize the power of building positive relationships.
Cozy Area
Many children need a quiet spot to recharge at some point during the day. This ‘be-by-myself’ space, which is set aside in the classroom, is a safe spot for a child who may be feeling overwhelmed. A protected place where children are empowered to turn to in order to relax or take a break, teachers often join the child if they need support in calming down or feeling secure.
Discovery: Nature Investigation Area
Let’s embrace the beautiful natural world around us! In this area, children develop social, fine motor, cognitive, and language skills while connecting to the natural world. This space is dedicated to containing natural elements, manipulatives, and activities, and where we learn to be responsible citizens of Earth.
Math Area
Our math area provides children the opportunity to improve their coordination, learn counting and sorting techniques, and expand their problem-solving skills. Focused on pre-K and kindergarten readiness, children will develop learning strategies that they will carry forward for years to come.
Language and Literacy Area
The library area contains a wide variety of age-appropriate books for children to explore and build emerging reading skills as they prepare for pre-K and kindergarten. Children strengthen cognitive and language abilities as well as fine motor skills in our writing accompanying writing area.
Why Choose Building Blocks?
Choosing a daycare center can be difficult. At Building Blocks, we understand that families weigh daycare costs against safety, security, a strong early childhood education, and so much more. Parents that choose a licensed Building Blocks Early Learning Center find that a private daycare approach provides the resources required for a robust early learning experience to best prepare children for kindergarten, unmatched from that of home childcare or other child care options. We invite you to see for yourself – schedule a tour and come play with us!