Los Altos, CA
Los Altos Parent Preschool

"Our philosophy is based on the principles outlined by The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC.) We are a child-centered, developmentally appropriate, anti-bias program that focuses on the whole child. We value the imagination and creativity of each child and the individuality of every family enrolled in our program. "
Excerpted from the preschool's website

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"Good Morning Group
The teacher and children gather together. The teacher greets the children, introduces the work parents and the activities for the day. Children check the chart to see who the helpers are for the day.
Free Choice
Work parents begin their assigned duties. Children take turns to put the date on the calendar, write the number for the day for the number line, and record the weather in the meteorologist's log. The children choose from a number of activities which change from day to day. These choices include outdoor activities – trikes, working with sand and water, climbing, painting, sensory experiences, gardening, organized games, etc., and indoor play – learning games, art, science or cooking projects, dramatic/fantasy play, puppet shows, playdough, etc.
Group Time A
Half of the children gather together to take part in the first Group Time while the rest of the children continue to play. The teacher leads varied activities such as music, movement, instrument play, songs, stories, or plays. During this time, the children have an opportunity to explore a wide range of topics/concepts while learning to take turns and participate in a group discussion.
Group Time B
The first group goes outside, and the second group comes in.
Snack
Snack is served family-style with children and adults sitting at tables together. A variety of food is presented in self-serve bowls, encouraging the children to serve themselves. Parents model conversation, table manners, and assist the children when needed.
Free Choice
Activities continue as in the first half of the day. Often new choices are presented, such as carpentry, sorting/sequencing games, dictation or other literacy activities, puzzles, etc.
Closing Circle
The teacher and children gather for one last time to share a story, sing songs, or do show and tell. Children may review the occurrences of the day and think about their experiences. The teacher dismisses the children from this group. The day ends.
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Excerpted from the preschool's website

source: