Preschool in Burlington, WA 98233
Burlington Little School is a community of learners, staff, and families working together to develop childrens self-esteem and respect. We practice the skills necessary to work cooperatively and peacefully in a diverse, multicultural world, to think creatively, and build a foundation for lifelong learning.
Every day parents and teachers here are reminded how special our programs are especially when at pick up time their child wants to stay.
Here is what one of the parents shared with us: The first time we experienced BLS at an open house we know immediately that this was the place for our children. The learning environment is welcoming and offers a safe and positive world of exploration of a young child. Its exciting and amazing to see the growth every day. We are proud to be a part of the BLS family and would recommend this school to everyone.
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At BLS we feel that our job, as teachers is to develop a partnership with the children, helping them to discover the academic opportunities that are embedded throughout their day. We see children as curious, competent and capable self directed learners. Our emphasis is on offering rich childhood experiences where children can build their passions and attention over time, using open-ended materials to create rather than consume as they learn. The teachers build on the children’s emerging interests as well as bring in their own passions as they plan the daily activities for the children. The difference at BLS is that the small class size, experienced and dedicated staff and active parent involvement allow staff to deliver this outstanding educational experience on a daily basis.
Curriculum
We blend of a variety of different approaches to learning which include Montessori, High Scope, Waldorf, and Gardeners Multiple Intelligences as well as creative, project based and emergent curriculum. By blending the best of several different styles we are able to create an atmosphere that enables and encourages children to see themselves as self directed learners and capable problem solvers. Academics or woven throughout the day by using a math program that integrates mathematical principles into daily play so that concepts are introduced and reinforced in context. Our literacy curriculum is built around the children’s names and Story Dramas. A strong creative arts component emphasizing the visual arts, dramatics, movement, and music is woven into the academic programs. Our daily schedule includes a time for children’s self-initiated activity, both indoors and outdoors, allowing children to engage in large body movement and exploration throughout the day. We also offer daily focused teaching times when we teach skills and demonstrate the possibilities of the tools and materials available in the classrooms. There is time for the children to slow down in the afternoon; children who need a nap can take one at this time.
Parent Involvement
Parent participation is a critical component of the BLS educational philosophy. Parent/teacher conferences, board, planning meetings and school activities throughout the year provide opportunities for families and staff to connect. Parent representatives are elected for each classroom to ensure that staff and families communicate and coordinate. Parents are encouraged to share their knowledge and talents with staff and students; they commit up to 36 hours of volunteer service during the academic year.