Spring Knolls Cooperative Nursery School

"The basic philosophy of the school is encouragement of the development of the whole child with emphasis on social, intellectual, physical and emotional growth. The children come to understand their own self-worth and to appreciate and respect the uniqueness of others. With a sense of self, children are more capable of handling life and are more receptive to others.
Another tenet of the Spring Knolls philosophy is the goal of a racial, cultural and economic mixture in the enrollment. Research has proven that the preschool years are the time to begin helping children see their own uniqueness as well as the differences strengthened in 1970 when Spring Knolls joined Washington Preschools, Inc., an organization specifically dedicated to the goals of full integration. The curriculum at Spring Knolls, therefore, involves an ongoing cultural enrichment program that is incorporated into the classroom activity. There is a continuous sharing of ethnic, racial and religious cultures reflecting the diversity of the school. "
Excerpted from the preschool's website

"Daily Life
Days at Spring Knolls are planned to provide the children with different types of activity:
Free play
Playtime with blocks and other manipulatives, play dough, puzzles, science equipment, books and each other
Arts & Crafts
Child-directed painting, sculpture, collage, drawing
Dramatic Play
Acting out stories and songs, puppetry, dress-up
Language Skills
Reading, encouraging communication, foreign languages and sign language
Cultural Enrichment
Learning about different foods, music, and ways of life from around the world
Romping
In the play yard or, on rainy days, on equipment inside
Music
Singing and dancing to live music and records, rhythm instruments, creative movement
Everyday Skills
Cooking, gardening, building, cleaning
Teachers and parents also plan special activities for the children, including field trips, special performances, holiday events, and visits from members of the community. "
Excerpted from the preschool's website