La Plazita Preschool

From the Director:

La Plazita Preschool was built by a group of mothers and educators that wanted to develop a school with an enriched curriculum full of opportunities to discover the world we live in from a variety of perspectives. We believe in culture, freedom to explore and preparing children to succeed for the rest of their lives. VISION Inspire and prepare children to succeed in a global and multilingual society.

From the Director:

La Plazita curriculum is a mix of various philosophies from Reggio Emilia, Montessori and play based. We like to take from each to create a well balanced approach to learning. Our curriculum is thematically based and provides a first or second language foundation in Spanish (depending on the home language of the child). In planning our themes we incorporate the environment, the seasons and most importantly the interests of the child. Age appropriate lessons and activitiesl are based on Pre-Kinder Academic Content Areas: Math, Social Studies, Science, Cultural Arts and Crafts, Physical Education through large and small motor activities, and an emphasis on physical health and well being by preparing and eating healthy foods.

Each child is different and at such a young age children are seen as individuals. They have mile stones that they develop over time. We like children to ease into learning in a fun way. They soon discover how to do things with their hands, how to listen to directions and how to play and share together. Much of what they learn in preschool is socio-emotional and we work on this daily, teaching our children empathy and regard for other people's feelings. In the younger 2 years they are more play based integrating into activities based on their personal interest. As they get older they find joy in guided activities and participate actively in small and large motor skill building activities.

MISSION

To foster a solid linguistic and social emotional foundation through Latin American literature, music, art, culture and traditions.

LA PLAZITA WAY

1. A loving "familia" environment for children and their families

2. Teach the Spanish language as a maternal or second language

3. Engage parents to be active participants in their child's development

4. Foster a lifestyle that promotes healthy habits including physical, mental and social wellbeing.

5. Inspire children to become active participants in our diverse neighborhoods and communities.

6. Prepare children for a successful transition into kindergarten.

7. Promote creativity and most importantly, have lots of fun!

My Day at La Plazita
(Sample Schedule)

7-9am Before Care
9-930 Circle Time
9:30 Large Motor Skills physical activity
10:00 Snack time
10:30 Small motor skills (writing/drawing, playdo, etc.)
11:00 Outdoor play (alternating music, dance)
11:30 Lunch
12:00 Cool down reading and Nap
1:30 Guided Reading Time
2:00 Arts and Crafts
2:30 Clean up and outdoor play
3-6pm after care

Before and after care includes arts, crafts and music, depending on the day.

We encourage children to participate in activities but also allow plenty of time for free play and exploration.

We encourage parents to volunteer their time. Our doors are always open for visits. We also provide the parents with a monthly vocabulary list of words and themes we are working on through the month so they may reinforce these at home.

We help children deal with separation anxiety by providing them with a lot of love and attention. We like parents to visit with their children as often as possible so they can get to know us without the fear of their parents leaving.