Many 2/3 year olds are starting school and child care for the first time. Our program and teachers are trained to help children transition from the home environment to a school environment. Social and emotional development at this stage is very important, as it involves learning self-regulation, learning positive self image, learning how to express feelings, and learning to have pride in accomplishments. Our classroom presents children with an environment filled with language, with all centers and areas labeled. The library cozy center is always open for children who want to curl up with a book. Math and science are included in every day activities such as observing natural objects, measuring, counting the amount of cups and napkins needed during meals. Art materials are provided each day to students, with materials varying frequently for young children to experience different types of art materials.
Home Sweet Home partners with the NYC Department of Education to offer the 3K program to 3/4 year old children. Many 3/4 year olds are continuing to build on skills that they have learned in the 2/3s program. Some 3/4 year olds are going to school or child care for the first time. Social and emotional learning is important in early childhood years. Children will learn and develop their abilities to cope with their emotions and how to communicate their emotions and needs to adults and peers. Young children learn best from hands on experiences. They need to be able to use their five senses to explore in order to learn. As children learn through our play curriculum, they will enhance their fine and gross motor skills, as well as learn how to work with their classmates in groups and independently. Children at this age are starting to express interest in reading and writing. Children will be on different levels, and teachers will work with children independently or in small groups based on each child's own development. Read alouds are also important at this time. Math and science are also weaved into the daily curriculum and activities. Manipulative materials are provided for children to use. The art center and materials are always available for children to work with. Music and movement programs in school allow students to build on their motor skills, and learn concepts of space and coordination.
Home Sweet Home partners with the NYC Department of Education and offers the Pre-K for All program for 4/5 year old children. Units are planned based on monthly themes, based on the world around us. Activities and lessons are hands on, so that children can learn through their five senses. At this age, students will also start to have classroom jobs, and learn how to take responsibility and ownership. Language and literacy at this age is more developed than the younger groups. Students are contributing more to group meetings, learning to negotiate and work together on projects and other class activities. Read alouds happen on a daily basis, and children begin to work on reading responses to improve reading comprehension. Our math curriculum is based on the Building Blocks curriculum, which is play-based curriculum that includes activities with math manipulatives and weekly home activities. Science learning provides children with the opportunity to study and observe real objects and creatures from nature. Art supplies are available each day for students to explore, with teachers often rotating and switching out different materials and tools to work with. Movement activities allow children to work on gross motor skills, balance and coordination, and music allows students to explore rhythms and work together to produce pieces.