Educational Philosophy

All VICPA preschools emphasize “Learning Through Play” philosophies and believe that through play, many of life’s necessary skills are developed. Each of our VICPA preschools has a unique environment that includes an excellent adult to child ratio allowing for individual attention. We are proud of our quality programming with play activities that vary from preschool to preschool.

VICPA preschools provide a play-based curriculum that:

• provides social and play experiences with children their own age
• supports the development of the whole child – socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually
• allows for the recognition of each child’s unique learning style, abilities, and developmental level
• encourages curiosity and creativity
• allows for hands on learning, where the curriculum emerges from the children’s interests, needs and desires; making learning concrete and meaningful
• provides the experience of having parent and child mutually sharing and participating in the school’s activities
• creates supportive relationships with adults other than their own parents

Central to our programs is the belief that:

• children thrive in an atmosphere of trust, where they are provided with support in a safe and gentle environment
• a child’s self esteem and ability to learn are interdependent – children succeed when they have a strong sense of self and independence

Examples of what play-based curriculum can provide for children’s development are:

Outdoor play

Children need fresh air and exercise; it helps to develop strong muscles and healthy bodies. Physical play helps to develop an awareness of their bodies (balance, strength, coordination) and builds confidence.

Story time

Sitting quietly listening to stories develops the skills of concentration and attention, and is an introduction to the wonderful world of books and reading.

Block building

Building is a bridge between the world of pretend and reality. It provides experience in spatial relationships, opportunities for sharing, and develops large and small muscle control. Blocks also provide a pre-math experience (size and shape sorting, balance).

Painting

Painting provides an opportunity for self-expression and enjoyment. The fun of creating is more important than the end product.

Water play and sandbox

Play in these areas encourages experimentation in texture and measurement in a fun way. It also presents early scientific and math concepts.

Play dough and clay

Modelling provides a release for aggressive feelings and offers general enjoyment.

Music and rhythm

These provide a means of self-expression through experimentation with songs, instruments, finger plays, games, and dancing.

Dramatic play

This type of play is used to re-enact experiences and stories, fears and feelings. It allows children to try out different roles and promotes cooperation.

Language communication

Communication and speech improve enormously at preschool. They are developed through all forms of play.

Table toys

Puzzles, beads, games, etc. These help a child to develop his hand-eye coordination, sequencing skills, ability to follow direction, and concentration.

Cutting and pasting

These provide an experience in hand and finger manipulation as well as self-expression. When presented with a variety of materials, shapes, textures, and objects to glue, children find an enormous amount of enjoyment in their creations.

Science table

Objects and experiments feed a child’s natural curiosity about the world around them and expand general knowledge.