We believe

• Childhood is a journey, not a race
• Play is an essential and integral part of every child’s growth, development, and learning across all domains and cultures
• Teachers are learners, researchers, and curriculum designers
• Teachers must form strong positive relationships with children
• Developmentally appropriate practice can be made visible
• Multiple intelligences theory is a dynamic tool for developing exploration-oriented learning experiences
• Observation is at the heart of best practices; authentic assessment is an on-going process throughout life
• Each part of the day has significance and meaning
• Family, school partnerships are an essential tool for building community
• Each child grows through the experience of joy