updated, January 4, 2012
Welcome and thanks for visiting!
Why choose CEL?
The Center for Early Learning is, and always has been, different from traditional preschools. Several key differences in our approach to preparing children for life-long learning set us apart.
Open art philosophy
"Art is not a thing. It is a way." -Albert Hubbard, 1911
Open art promotes divergent thinking. It allows children to develop a strong sense of self, to communicate ideas non-verbally, and to resolve interpersonal conflicts. Open art supports sight discrimination, spatial awareness, eye-hand coordination, laterality and directionality, technical skills, and fine motor skills. Children's art should be of their own creation, without the restrictions imposed by adult expectations. CEL offers only open-ended opportunities for exploration in the arts and sciences and never presents pre-cut art activities or coloring sheets for the children to use.
Methodical discipline policy
Our discipline policy incorporates positive direction, positive reinforcement, forestalling, redirection, and natural and logical consequences. All of these strategies promote self-regulation and encourage children to work through their newly found emotions and conflicts by using words.
Learning through play
Our programs offer fun learning experiences designed with age appropriate goals in mind. We understand that children grow and learn at different rates and in different ways. We accommodate different learning styles by providing many ways to do things. The classrooms are arranged in learning centers with all materials within the reach of children.
A healthy snack policy
A healthy body supports a healthy mind. Learning to make healthy choices is a skill that endures. We are diligent about recognizing allergies and food sensitivities. For more on our snack policy, click here.
Secular approach to curriculum programming
We recognize and respect that not everyone in our community may share the same traditions, beliefs, or holidays. We teach children that celebrating special occasions and family traditions is universal while highlighting our commonalities and differences.
Low student:teacher ratio
Toddler/Guided Learners (2 year olds) 4:1
Independent Learners (3 year olds) 6:1
Pre-K Learners (4 and 5 year olds) 7:1
Comprehensive assessment of each child bi-annually
In addition to the daily teacher-to-parent exchange at dismissal, each child at CEL is consistently observed and assessed on his/her learning process, culminating in biannual parent-teacher conferences. Our assessment packets evaluate multiple facets of your child's development: intellectual, physical, social, and emotional. Additionally, the director and staff are available for parent concerns anytime during the year. Parents are encouraged to visit the school to observe their child.
Extended before and after child care
See our Enrichment Programs - The Early Birds and The Lunch Bunch - for additional information.
Newsletters and bi-monthly curriculum plans
Parent involvement
Although parents do not assist in the classroom, we encourage them to serve on the various board committees. We invite parents to share their special or unique talents in music, art or shared cultural experiences by in-class visits at various times during the year. Parents are also invited to be involved with fundraising efforts, field trips and other special events such as dances, art shows, and festivals.
| Our Motto: ...where caring and learning shine through... Our Mission Statement: To offer preschool children a structured learning program which consists of a written curriculum, well designed classrooms, careful choice of learning materials, consistent application of rules of behavior and an assessment of each child's development. To create a classroom environment that encourages the development of independence, self-control and "quiet confidence". To promote the above through an educational program directed towards parents and the community at large through conferences, committees, projects and programs sponsored by CEL. Our Goals for Children: Independence, Self-Control, Social Competence, Self-Confidence |
Click here for information on our program offerings
or
Click this link to view our entire collection of official literature!