Play-based since 1970, Sequoia’s approach allows children to make sense of the world as they explore, practice, and master skills. We support...

the whole child

- fostering intellectual, physical, social-emotional growth and language development

 
“Children need the freedom to appreciate the infinite resources of their hands, their eyes, and their ears, the resources of forms, materials, sounds and colours.”
— Loris Malaguzzi

safety

- children thrive in an atmosphere of trust -- they are guided with gentle support in an emotionally and physically safe environment

hands-on experiences

- hands-on learning is how children make discoveries for themselves -- when learning emerges from a context that is engaging and relevant it becomes concrete and meaningful

“Dignity really means that I deserve the best treatment I can receive. And that I have the responsibility to give the best treatment I can to other people.”
— Maya Angelou

self esteem

- a child’s ability to learn is dependent on having a strong sense of self and belonging, meaningful participation nurtures a sense of competence and independence

“Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play, children learn how to learn.”
— -O.F. Donaldson, play researcher
 
 

learning styles

- recognizing each child has a unique learning style, unique abilities, and a unique developmental growth arc

respect and inclusivity

- we hold in high regard each individual and each voice, facilitating the resolution of conflicts to cultivate healthy interpersonal connections, and encouraging respect and appreciation for similarities and differences

“Feeling good about ourselves is essential in our being able to love others. ”
— Mister Rogers

learning conflict resolution

- helping children develop social and emotional skills is the heart of our program, and learning conflict resolution is a core skill we build at SPNS

- our goal is for everyone to receive support and learn to navigate the feelings that lead to conflict

- we practice paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal communication, responding empathetically, and resolving conflicts without rewards or punishments

- the goal is for all parties to have a chance to feel heard, and resolve problems with trust and mutual respect

“It is a happy talent to know how to play.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

academic skills

- academic skills for preschoolers include speaking & listening (language), early reading and writing, math, science, and creative arts

- at Sequoia, children develop these important skills in a developmentally appropriate manner through self-directed play, shared reading with adults, and learning from one another

Playful learning today prepares children for school success tomorrow

Although a significant portion of the day is dedicated to child-directed free play, we establish a daily rhythm that provides children with predictability and consistency. Various elements, such as the morning greeting, circle time, shared snack time, closing circle time, and a goodbye song, provide structure throughout the day.

  • circle time songs and music encourage group participation, coordination, listening skills, and memorization

  • rich dramatic play areas provide space for imaginary play fostering a child’s resourcefulness and creativity

  • art areas provide opportunities for creativity, self-expression, and exploration with a variety of materials

  • manipulative props and play-dough play exercise fine muscle and finger control needed for forming letters and numbers

  • book corners and story time promote literacy, reading aloud develops skills of concentration and attention and introduces the wonderful world of literature, language, and imagination

  • hands-on math and science activities cultivate curiosity and experimentation

  • open-ended building areas offer children space to make and test hypotheses, practice math & physical concepts, and stretch their imagination

  • messy play allows children to get their hands dirty, learn cause and effect, use their senses, build motor skills, and new vocabulary

  • outdoor games and large group play prompt the practice of interpersonal skills, as well as the exercise of large motor skills

  • climbing, sliding, balancing, jumping from heights, and hanging upside down challenges children, builds awareness of their own body (balance, coordination), boosts confidence, and builds core strength

  • special classroom visitors and group outings inspire and connect children to the greater community and world

  • writing concepts are gently introduced to ready and interested children