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Our Philosophy
The St. Charles School District Early Childhood Preschool program operates under the philosophy that learning is child-centered, process oriented and choice driven. A variety of developmentally appropriate, hands-on learning opportunities are provided, such as language and literacy, dramatic play, blocks, science, math, games, puzzles, books, art, music, motor skill development and outdoor play opportunities. Instruction is organized in thematic units. The preschool classrooms are implementing a curriculum that aligns with the Missouri Early Learning Standards as well as Project Construct, Missouri’s recommended framework for Early Childhood. The environment will provide experiences that stimulate your child’s social, physical, intellectual and language development. Children learn through play in a safe environment that fosters discovery while building on each child’s strengths. Teachers facilitate the development of self-control in children by using positive guidance techniques such as modeling and encouraging appropriate behaviors, redirecting, and setting clear limits.
Why is Play Important?
Play is essential for children to learn. Research indicates that children learn best in an environment which allows them to play, explore and discover. Play is an important part of a developmentally appropriate preschool program. Play enhances language development, thinking skills, social competence, creativity, and imagination. Children need an active environment that is safe and offers choices.
Play provides the opportunity for children to practice new skills. Simple play experiences help children gain knowledge about the world and use their real experiences to organize concepts of how the world works. Children build upon what they know. Through play, children explore their world, find out how to get along with others, test their skills and muscles, try out new ideas and feel secure enough to try different activities. Play is an important part of life!
