Our Curriculum

The PRLC Preschool curriculum is deeply inspired by the educational philosophy & practices of Reggio Emilia, Italy. At it’s core, this philosophy is rooted in the belief that all children deserve respect and are valued and powerful members of our community. Our teachers spend intentional time getting to know each child to build secure and healthy relationships with them. This secure attachment is the foundation of our curriculum as it allows the children to fully immerse themselves in the classroom. Teachers engage in a cyclical planning pattern (the Cycle of Inquiry) in order to observe the active learning of the children in their care, document and reflect on its possible meaning, and plan for ways to expand on what the children are doing. We believe that this responsive curriculum design allows children to learn in the most authentic way possible and keeps teachers engaged in powerful meaning-making through all aspects of daily classroom activities.

We believe in trusting children to take the lead in their learning experiences; teachers take on the role of facilitators and researchers alongside each classroom. We strive to support children by adding new ideas, inviting curiosity, and scaffolding developing skills in whatever activities they are most drawn to.

Children painting abstract art on large canvases outdoors on a sunny day.

The Five Pillars of the Whole Child

In designing our day to day curriculum experiences, our teachers focus on long term developmental goals and a set of learning dispositions we have identified which support a child’s holistic growth. As we document their learning throughout their earliest years, we frequently reference building the following qualities:

 

~ Creative ~ Resilient ~ Engaged ~ Curious ~ Empowered ~

 

By focusing on these traits & skills, our teachers are able to craft experiences which support children at varying levels of development in every classroom. Our hope is that children will be well equipped to meaningfully contribute to whatever learning communities may await them when they eventually leave our care. You can learn more about each pillar below!

Chart titled "The 5 Pillars of the Whole Child" with five columns labeled Creative, Resilient, Engaged, Curious, and Empowered, each containing descriptive text and examples related to preschool children's development.

    • Develop innovative theories and solutions

    • Look at challenges from new perspectives

    • Represent self through a variety of expressive mediums

    • Find joy, inspiration, and pride in their own sense of design

    • Express and name their own emotions

    • Persevere through difficult challenges and obstacles

    • Take risks and try out new experiences

    • Identify and relate to the emotions of others during times of conflict

    • Participate as a member of a learning community

    • Build authentic relationships through trust and respect

    • Initiate activities around their interests

    • Explore in many areas of play with a variety of peers

    • Approach new opportunities with wonder and excitement

    • Ask questions and seek out answers

    • Think critically to further understand and challenge assumptions

    • Connect to nature through exploration and experimentation

    • Express their identity with confidence

    • Drive their own learning journey

    • Advocate for self and others

    • Understand and display confidence in their role in the community