Cooking

Either a cooking project or Tea Party takes place in the kitchen area each day.

Children must wash their hands before starting any cooking project or Tea Party and must wash all dishes and their hands when they finish eating.

The number of children at the cooking table is limited to four for a cooking project and two for a Tea Party. The parent assigned to the cooking table assists the children when necessary. If several children come to the Kitchen area at the same time, the cooking parent may start a "waiting list" so that the children are assured of getting a turn and can play in another center while waiting.

Playdough

Playdough, which is provided by the parents responsible for each week’s theme set-up, and cookie cutters, rolling pins, etc. are available to the children every day. This is a self-directed area.

Blocks

The Block area is a self-directed area where children can learn and appreciate basic mathematical and scientific concepts, balance, and form through the construction of block structures. Parents assigned to the Red Room can kindle enthusiasm through his/her interest and encouragement.

It may be necessary to remind children to handle blocks carefully because they are heavy. When cleaning up, children should be guided to place the blocks of the same size and shape where it is labeled on the shelves.

Science Table

Various materials and experiments are displayed and are available to handle and investigate.

Work Jobs

An activity which involves manipulating counters, tongs, etc. to develop counting skills or fine motor control is available each week.

Writing Center

Paper, markers, glue, scissors, as well as other miscellaneous supplies are available to the children so that they can draw, "write," cut and glue their own creations.

Dramatic Play

This center is equipped with play kitchen furniture, play food, dress up clothes, and dolls to spur creative dramatization. The area is often transformed with props for the various themes to add to the children’s depth of experience.

Library

Each room is equipped with a bookshelf. Books are rotated so that they correlate with the current theme.

Outside

The playground has permanent structures as well as toys that are put out daily for the children. Careful supervision is necessary to insure the children’s safety.