Washtenaw Community College Children's Center

According to the Michigan State Board of Education “Standards of Quality and Curriculum” early childhood education programs must develop a written philosophy based on: “An underlying theory or statement of fundamental beliefs which establishes a framework for program decisions and provides direction for goal setting and program implementation.”

Washtenaw Communtiy College Children’s Center has developed a philosophy based on current theories and research in the field of early childhood education. Inherent in this philosophy is our dedication to ensuring a program that celebrates diversity by supporting and respecting cultural racial and religious differences. Parent participation at any level is encouraged and valued. A strong parent-center relationship is crucial to our success.

Classrooms activities and physical arrangement is contingent upon implementation of best practices derived from an in-depth knowledge of child development and development theories. As mandated by the State of Michigan Department of Human Services a language and literacy rich environment is provided to enhance all aspects of emergent language and literacy skills. This includes support for children who are learning English as a second language as well as support for their parents.

Children use play adult and peer interactions imitation motivation and direct instruction as processes through which knowledge is acquired and social connections are made. Classrooms environments are designed and arranged in ways to allow for meaningful hands-on exploration intense direct instruction purposeful social interaction and behavioral intervention. Individualization is vital in all classrooms. We believe all children are capable and competent learners have unique learning styles and learn at their own pace. Teachers individualize curriculum and classrooms to inspire and challenge as well as allow for sequential successes.

Developmentally appropriate curriculum is planned implemented and evaluated daily. To prepare children for future success early childhood educators must first meet the challenges of children at their current developmental level. To do this teachers implement an inquiry based and enriching curriculum. Therefore teachers monitor progress and assess skills in order to match curriculum goals with current and future levels of achievement. Teachers use curriculum models focusing on all areas of development (cognitive language physical and social/emotional) to ensure children are provided with an academically solid program (reading writing math and science activities) as well as a secure environment in which to practice social skills and appropriate expression of emotions.