First Presbyterian Preschool, Inc.

Phone 850 222-4587

First Presbyterian Preschool, Inc. is a non-sectarian, not-for-profit corporation governed by its own Board of Directors. Begun as the first inter-racial preschool in Tallahassee, the Preschool is housed at First Presbyterian Church, and receives extensive in-kind support from the church. Its full-day program serves children aged 2-5 and their families.

MISSION STATEMENT

First Presbyterian Preschool provides a safe, nurturing environment for young children of diverse economic, racial, and religious backgrounds. Human development research indicates that there are universal, predictable sequences of growth and change that occur in children. At the same time we recognize that each child is a unique person with an individual pattern and timing of growth as well as an individual personality, learning style, and family background. The appreciation of all of these factors provides the framework for the learning environment at this school.

The program follows the guidelines for “Developmentally Appropriate Practice” as defined and published by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The curriculum is based on the basic developmental needs of young children. It offers opportunities and activities through an integrated approach. We believe that young children learn most effectively through concrete, play-oriented activities and that learning is an interactive process. It is the process we focus on, not the product of the child at this young age. Teachers prepare the environment for children to learn through active exploration and interaction with adults, other children, and materials. These activities match the child’s interest and understanding. All interactions and activities are designed to develop children’s self-esteem and positive feelings towards learning.

CURRICULUM GOALS

The curriculum includes goals in all areas of development:

· Social: to help children feel comfortable in Preschool, trust their new environment, make friends, and feel that they are part of the Preschool family;

· Emotional: to help children experience pride and self-confidence, self-control, and have a positive attitude towards life;

· Cognitive: to help children become confident learners by providing the experiences and materials to allow them to explore, question, and solve problems;

· Physical: to help children develop large muscles and fine motor skills, and to feel confident about what their bodies can do;

· Creative: to help children explore the arts through music, drama, art, and movement.

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