Purpose and Curriculum of the Nursery School

PURPOSES

To provide an inclusive culturally diverse and laboratory in which Shepherd University students observe, participate, and study under the supervision of professionally educated and experienced personnel.

To supplement the home environment by learning experiences that promote physical, social, motor and emotional development.

To promote a greater understanding of child development and early education.

CURRICULUM

The curriculum is patterned after the High/Scope "child initiated" curriculum, developed over 30 years of research. It is based on the ideas of Swiss psychologist, Jean Piaget. His premise was that children learn best from activities they plan and carry out themselves. The High/Scope curriculum emphasizes that children learn through play and by making decisions and solving problems on their own. The adult's role is to provide a stimulating environment and guide the children's play into challenging and meaningful activities.

The curriculum is built around a "plan-do-review" core. Children begin the half-day sessions by planning activities with their teachers. After planning time, they move to different centers to carry out their plans. After clean-up time, children see they can make things happen. They are expected to grow in confidence and self-esteem.