At Open Doors Preschool, we believe that each day is an opportunity to inspire young minds, nurture growing bodies, and foster a lifelong love of learning. Our structured yet flexible daily schedule is designed to provide a balanced blend of academic, social, and physical activities that cater to the holistic development of every child. Let’s take a closer look at what a typical day looks like at our preschool.
Morning Welcome and Free Play
The day begins with a warm welcome as children arrive and are greeted by our experienced, loving teachers. This initial interaction sets a positive tone, making each child feel valued and excited for the day ahead. Upon arrival, children engage in free play, allowing them to choose activities that interest them. This period encourages creativity, decision-making, and social interaction among peers.
Circle Time: Building Community
Following free play, we gather for Circle Time, a cherished part of our daily routine. During this session, children and teachers come together to discuss the day’s schedule, share news, and participate in group activities. Circle Time fosters a sense of community and belonging, enhances listening skills, and provides opportunities for children to express themselves.
Structured Learning Activities
Mid-morning is dedicated to structured learning activities guided by our comprehensive curriculum, Learning Beyond Paper. This curriculum aligns with the OEL Florida Early Learning Standards and is designed to meet both individual and group developmental needs. Activities focus on various domains, including:
- Language and Literacy: Storytelling, letter recognition, and vocabulary-building exercises.
- Mathematics: Counting, pattern recognition, and basic problem-solving tasks.
- Science and Discovery: Hands-on experiments and exploration of the natural world.
- Art and Creativity: Drawing, painting, and crafting to encourage self-expression.
Our low child-to-staff ratios ensure that each child receives individualized attention, allowing teachers to adapt activities to meet the unique learning styles and paces of their students.
Outdoor Play and Physical Activity
Recognizing the importance of physical development, we incorporate outdoor play into our daily schedule. Children have the opportunity to engage in activities that develop gross motor skills, such as running, climbing, and playing organized games. Our safe and well-equipped outdoor spaces provide the perfect environment for children to expend energy, develop coordination, and learn the value of teamwork.
Nutritious Meals and Snacks
Proper nutrition is vital for growing bodies and active minds. At Open Doors Preschool, we provide breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack for all children in our care. Participating in the USDA Food Program, we ensure that all meals and snacks are nutritious and meet dietary guidelines for young children. Our menus are carefully planned to offer balanced and healthy options, and we accommodate dietary restrictions as needed.
Rest and Quiet Time
After lunch, children participate in rest or quiet time. This period allows them to recharge, promoting overall well-being and readiness for afternoon activities. For children who do not nap, we offer quiet activities such as reading or puzzles to ensure a calm and restful environment for all.
Afternoon Enrichment Activities
The afternoon is filled with enrichment activities that complement our core curriculum. These may include:
- Music and Movement: Singing, dancing, and rhythm exercises to develop auditory and motor skills.
- Cultural Celebrations: Activities that explore and celebrate diverse cultures, fostering inclusivity and global awareness.
- Group Projects: Collaborative tasks that encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Closing Circle and Reflection
As the day draws to a close, we reconvene for a brief Closing Circle. This time allows children to reflect on the day’s experiences, share their favorite moments, and discuss what they’ve learned. It reinforces the sense of community and prepares them for a smooth transition home.
Commitment to Excellence
Open Doors Preschool is proud to be a licensed and Gold Seal accredited facility, a testament to our commitment to high-quality early education and childcare. Our accreditation by nationally recognized agencies ensures that our standards are independently verified, providing families with confidence in the exceptional care and education we offer.
Experienced and Caring Educators
Our team of experienced, trained professional teachers is passionate about early childhood education. They recognize that each child develops and learns at their own pace and are adept at adjusting curricula to meet the needs of all children. By maintaining low child-to-staff ratios, our teachers can better understand each child as a unique individual and tailor learning activities accordingly.
A Loving, Nurturing Environment
At Open Doors Preschool, we prioritize creating a loving and nurturing environment where children feel safe, respected, and valued. Basic values and character traits such as friendship and honesty are woven into daily classroom activities, helping children develop strong social and emotional foundations.
Family Engagement and Community
We believe that family involvement is crucial to a child’s success. Open Doors Preschool actively engages with families through regular communication, events, and volunteer opportunities. By involving families in the school community, we create a supportive network that values and celebrates each child’s unique background.
Conclusion
A day at Open Doors Preschool is thoughtfully designed to provide a balanced and enriching experience that supports the holistic development of every child. From engaging learning activities and physical play to nutritious meals and rest periods, our schedule reflects our commitment to fostering a nurturing environment where children can thrive. We invite you to visit us and experience firsthand the vibrant and supportive community we’ve built, dedicated to laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Contact Open Doors Preschool today for a tour and to get started.
