Mission and Philosophy

Mission

To serve as a model program, train early childhood professionals, act as a catalyst to quality care and education for children, their families and the community; and to generate new knowledge through the study, observation, and inquiry of early childhood education.

Philosophy

Since inception, the educational program in the center is based on sound principles of Child Development. Our goals are to give children a sense of worth by helping them develop at their own individual pace while learning basic skills. We want the children to feel confident and secure enough to explore and grow in a stimulating educational and social environment. We acknowledge and utilize the role of play in the development of children. Play allows children to be curious, creative, inventive, and imaginative in an environment that encourages emotional well-being, socialization, communication, cognitive processes, and motor skills.

We are committed to promoting and supporting all aspects of a child’s growth in an atmosphere of respect. Children participate in a variety of individual and group activities designed to:

• develop language readiness skills
• enhance physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth and develop skills and attitudes, which will increase their ability to succeed in life
• build a sense of community for children and families, and enhance each child’s self-concept
• provide the right kind of stimulating, safe and fun environment children can progress and grow at their own pace and in a manner that will support a life-long quest for learning and growth.

The development and training of center staff is a continuous process, which includes attending workshops, listening to guest speakers and frequent discussion. The staff is encouraged to visit other programs and take additional courses related to Child Development and/or Early Childhood Education.

Daily activities are designed to provide appropriate experiences in the following early childhood development areas: Social Development, Cognitive Development, Language Skills, Physical Development, and Emotional Development. An overall curriculum is provided which is developmentally appropriate for all ages served. Written Lesson Plans outline goals and the intentional activities, experiences, and interactions that are to achieve child benchmarks as described by Texas Early Learning Guidelines for little Texans.