Philosophy and Principles

Our program is designed to encourage and support the development of each child and to provide opportunities for exploration, expression and discovery. Learning experiences are designed to stimulate the child's creative and problem solving abilities. Positive development of the child's self-image is one of our top priorities and is a key factor when planning and implementing the classroom curriculum.

LilyPad follows the guiding principles established in the Iowa Early Learning Standards when planning activities for young children. The following principles should be followed:

• Children develop knowledge of their world through active interactions with caregivers, peers, materials, and events.
• Learning is sequential, building on prior understandings and experiences.
• Learning proceeds at different rates in each area and each child; children will show a range of skills and understandings in any one area of development.
• Learning in each area is interconnected. Young children learn best through experiences, which incorporate several areas of development.
• Learning is embedded in a culture. Children learn best when their learning activities are rooted in a familiar cultural context.
• Learning begins in the family, continues in early care and education settings, and depends on parent involvement and caregiver guidance.
• All children have the potential to achieve the Iowa Learning Standards with appropriate supports and instruction.