Curriculum
The curriculum of CLCC is developed around Christian values and developmentally appropriate teaching practices. Our curriculum provides an environment that will nurture, support and enrich children on a daily basis. We provide opportunities for academic readiness, vocabulary development, social skills, gross motor skills, create art and music. The curriculum also includes Bible stories and an understanding of Christian faith.
A Pre-School has a Curriculum?
Absolutely!
There are many centers around the country that purchase pre-packaged curriculum programs. But at Christ Lutheran we put together a team of curriculum-educated teachers to research the most successful teaching techniques, coupled with their own classroom experience in knowing what really works, to create what we believe to be a truly exceptional educational program. Each classroom uses its own, age-appropriate curriculum, while keeping to the same theme as all other classrooms.
Our philosophy is to introduce lessons and skills to your children so that when they are ready, they know how to apply what they’ve absorbed. Our curriculum is based on learning through songs, finger plays, repetition, books, and play. Each teacher understands that our children learn in different ways and at different rates. We embrace this notion and help each child learn in a way that works for them. Learning should be fun; but there also needs to be plenty of free play throughout the day. Free play opens the door to independence and creativity, which makes every day a new, exciting experience. Centers in each classroom include age appropriate materials in art, science/sensory, fine motor/manipulative, books, music, dramatic play, and blocks. Our 3’s, 4’s, and TK classrooms also have a writing center.
All classes from Infants through TK will have the same theme of the week starting with “All About Me” in August and ending with “Fun and Games” in June. During the summer months, full day children participate in CLCC’s summer camp that consists of fun-filled themes with: water days, special treats, crafts, games, and activities.
Studies have shown that developmental skills of children even out around second or third grade. Children are sponges and will take in the information and let it “pour out” when they are ready. One cannot force a child to do something that they are not ready to do. We learn through songs, finger plays, repetition, play, and books.
Our faith and belief is that we are all children of God. We believe our spiritual development and well-being are part of our growth and maturity, especially in the early years of life. At Christ Lutheran Children’s Center, we will talk about the God who loves us, the God who creates all that exists and the God who sent us His Son, Jesus, to reveal His love. Songs, stories, and art about God will be shared in our classrooms as we partner with the church with our Bible Story of the Week. Prayers of thanksgiving will be prayed before snack and lunch. The following extracurricular activities are offered as part of the curriculum:
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Bible Story of the Week – Stories are covered through readings, music, puppets, and discussions in each classroom.
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Character Education – Character traits are built upon monthly which aid in your child’s social and emotional growth. Students will gain a great foundation and understanding of these traits through stories and activities with stuffed animals, and role playing.
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Science – Twos – PreK are introduced to theme-related experiments and hands on experiences as well as concepts of trial and error and predicting outcomes.
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Movement- Teacher directed gross motor skill class. Held weekly for all age groups with developmentally appropriate activities.
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Chapel – Bible stories are reinforced in Christ Chapel with a pastor on a weekly basis with our older children.
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Outdoor Learning Environment – Teacher-planned and school-wide weekly activities are enjoyed in this environment where all our children can develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
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Music – Held daily in the classroom with your child’s teachers and twice a month with our music teacher, Donna Wallace, for all children.
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Storytelling– Each month, children ages Toddlers through PreK enjoy stories and songs that center on a monthly theme. Themes include season and holiday stories as well as values such as friendship.
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Rumpus Room – Infants and toddlers enjoy going to this room daily to promote physical activity and play with each other.
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Other – OPTIONAL programs from the community are offered at an additional cost.