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At Little Lites we believe that children are unique and a gift from God. We believe that each child should be able to learn and grow the person that he or she is supposed to be, in a responsible way.
All children, regardless of age, gender, culture, and ability should be given an equal opportunity to learn and should be given quality care. This is facilitated by hiring quality teachers, developing a quality curriculum, providing quality supplies, and providing a quality environment in which they can learn and develop.
Children deserve to be valued on a personal level by each member of the staff. Every child is unique and needs to be treated and cared for in a unique way. All children should also be encouraged and guided through ongoing positive interactions with their teachers, environment, parents, and peers. It is our responsibility to help train, teach, and encourage parents, teachers, peers, and family members to support the children in their lives in positive ways.
Developmentally appropriate practices are incorporated and used in the classroom on a daily basis. This means that children will be treated and taught on an individual basis, based on their own developmental level, personality, and personal needs. Again, every child is unique and must be taught in a unique way that is meaningful and understandable to them and their development.
Children learn through hands-on, experiential play; play enables children to learn and discover the world around them. I will provide plenty of time for children to play. I also believe that children should be given ample time to explore their environment through self-directed play. I will do this by stepping back and letting the children lead the activities and play time.
Children should be given the opportunity to express themselves in a creative and unique manner. Children’s individual personalities should not be silenced, but should be fostered and encouraged to develop and grow. I will allow and encourage children to express themselves in many different, healthy ways.
Last but not least, I believe that parents are a vital part of every child’s life and development as a whole person. Parents should be, and will be, encouraged and welcomed to actively participate in their child’s classroom and daily life. Opportunities for classroom involvement, as well as resources and materials that support them in their role as parents will be provided, and any questions or concerns will be addressed.