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Small Wonder's philosophy for preschool education is based several components. First, we believe that children
learn through play. This is the foundation of our program. Our learning enviroment is organized in a way that
allows for play through many different learning centers. Our learning centers are designed for play situations that
initiate creative thinking. Everything is placed in our learning centers with a strategic purpose. Second, we
realize that each and every child learns differently. Some children learn through music, some learn through tactile
experimentation, some learn well in small groups, some prefer large groups. Children cannot be told how to learn, rather,
they tell us how they learn best and we support their learning through observation and then by creating lessons and activities
that scaffold what children already know to new experiences and idealy new concepts and understanding. Third, we realize
that education begins at home with family and friends. Parents are a child's first teacher. Through our website,
monthly newsletters, conferences, and informal interactions with parents we hope to give parents support and ideas so that
they can build on what we are learning in the classroom at home.
Small Wonders Preschool classes meet from September- May. Children must be 3
by September 1st to start preschool. Our 3-year-olds meet two days a week on Tuesday and Thursday. We have a morning or afternoon
class. Our 4-year-olds meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and also have a morning or afternoon class to choose from. We
have many special trips, activities, and guests throughout the year. We have conferences with all parents in October and March to
discuss each child's progress and determine goals for their future. Our class size is limited to 15 per class with one
teacher and one teaching assistant. We start accepting names for our waiting list in some cases when children are born. We
officially start registering children a year before they start preschool. You can call anytime to register or place your child
on our list. Just call the church office at 217-293-6229. You may also email: fpchoopeston@frontier.com.
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ABOUT SMALL WONDERS PRESCHOOL
Small Wonders Preschool is licensed by The
Department of Children and Family Services.
- Teacher/Director, Chelsea
Foster, holds a BS in speech pathology.
- Assistant Teacher, Sandy Eckersley,
has decades of experience in the field of early childhood.
- We exceed all Illinois State Board of Education Early Learning Standards.
- We are listed with Child Care Resource Service, affliliated with the University of Illinois.
- Our focus is on the development of the whole child for success throughout their school years.
- We work in a positive, warm, caring environment with many hands on activities
to create excitement about learning.
- We have a centered learning curriculum
and presently have 12 different learning centers.
- We welcome parental
involvement through visits, drop ins, help with parties and trips anytime.
- Our
staff is always available for questions, comments, and concerns.
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