At Appleseed Learning Center, we believe that meeting the basic needs of health, safety and nutrition for each child in a trusting, loving environment is our first priority, and that every child has the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
Appleseed Learning Center Philosophy
John Dewey, the father of American education, states that early childhood education is a process of living and learning each day for today, not just a preparation for future learning. Based on his philosophy, children can be the center of the curriculum.
Young children learn by active participation and play, interacting with their environment and the people around them. Through exploration, discovery, and inquiry, they become “curious learners,” promoting their desire for life-long learning. We want to see this happen in all Leechburg Preschools.
In our preschool, we believe in teaching children, not subjects. We emphasize the learning of traditional skills through the use of an abundance of hands-on materials in a carefully designed environment.
We are also exploring the “project approach” of the Reggio Emilia preschools in Italy, to further enhance children’s participation in planning what they will learn. It is our belief that when children are provided with an opportunity to make learning choices, they learn self-discipline and self-control.
Modeling the theories of Maria Montessori, teachers at Appleseed Learning Center do not impose knowledge on children; they are facilitators of learning. Problem-solving activities and critical thinking are encouraged. Our knowledgeable preschool staff provides a predictable daily routine with planned activities, yet they are flexible and spontaneous in response to children’s current needs and interests.
At Appleseed Learning Center, we understand that all children have their own personalities and temperaments. We treat each child as a valued individual, providing them with love, kindness, and security. We strive to empower every child to develop a positive self-identity.
Appleseed Learning Center
Nurturing Today’s Children, The Seeds of Tomorrow