Program
Our program focus is to create an environment where children can learn to respect themselves and others. The positive relationship between staff and child provides an environment where independence is encouraged and self-esteem is enhanced. A wide variety of activities and experiences are planned to help children learn problem-solving and negotiating skills which empower them to play and learn cooperatively. The development of large and small motor development is provided through active indoor and outdoor activities.
Children are exposed to a variety of themes integrating language experiences, mathematical explorations, science inquiry, and social studies concepts. Emphasis is placed on the use of manipulatives, hands-on learning and encouraging observations, questioning, and thinking skills. We strive to develop a child’s self-esteem/self-competence and promote positive feelings toward learning.
Our classroom is arranged into learning centers in accordance with the research proving the many benefits to children. Learning Centers provide social settings and allow children to divide into small groups, allowing them to interact with those outside their usual group and gives children the opportunity for self-directed and cooperative play. Centers are a great opportunity to practice social skills and to teach children to be considerate and responsible.
In the Sensory Center, child learn: how to complete complex tasks by building nerve connections in the brain’s pathway, strengthen and build fine motor skills through tactile play, problem-solving skills, thinking about how things work, how to play and engage with different materials, and how to maneuver challenges, and how to troubleshoot problems, social skills, and learn to adapt how others play. In the Manipulative Center children learn: grasping, twisting pieces together, pulling pieces apart to build hand-eye coordination and hand strength, language development, self-talk, and discussion which promotes self-regulation and can help lengthen attention span, spatial awareness and problem-solving skills, and creativity and imagination.
In the Library Center children learn: names of the letters and sounds each letter represents by reading alphabet books, how to handle books, parts of the book how to point out letters and words, critical and creative thinking skills, and kindergarten readiness by improving literacy and listening skills. In the Dramatic Play Center children learn: creativity, self-expression, real life skills, and social skills, conflict resolution and problem-solving skills, self-regulation, coordinate with others, and make plans, to explore thoughts and feelings, sort through difficult emotions, and practice being in the world.
In the Art Center children learn: creativity, self-expression, and problem-solving skills, releasing extra tension and/or emotions, developing fine motor skills, and practicing critical thinking skills. In the Block Center children learn: practicing grasping and hand manipulation skills, building complex structures that require balance, steady hands, and hand-eye coordination, utilizing math concepts such as size, shape, number, order, area, length, pattern, weights, comparison, measurement, and classification, building language development by practicing new vocabulary to describe types of buildings, shapes, and structures, and practicing sharing ideas, negotiation, and following rules.
In the Calm Down Center children learn: how to talk about feelings and ways to calm down, self-regulation in a safe space when emotions are running high and child needs to regain emotional or physical control, to practice identifying and communicating feelings and emotions to better manage stress, and control impulses, and communication skills to help build stronger relationships with others and develop skills in empathy.
We are licensed by the state of PA department of Human Services and participate in the STARS quality program. We meet or exceed their high standards for staff requirements, teacher-student ratio, educational program and curriculum, and fire and safety regulations. We receive an annual on-site inspection and surprise spot checks throughout the year to ensure quality and compliance is being maintained.
Christian Education
Children of all faith traditions, including none, are welcome and embraced at St. Alban’s Christian Learning Center. Positive moral values are taught to our students and undercut our entire curriculum. We strive to teach children respect, gratitude, understanding, and forgiveness. The children attend weekly chapel and are invited throughout the year to participate in philanthropy to assist the communities we serve. We empower children by identifying, acknowledging, and appreciating the talents of each child and help them understand that they are accepted and valued for their uniqueness.
Breakout Fitness For Kids
We believe a strong mind and a strong body go hand-in-hand. We offer activities that build strength, stamina, flexibility, and balance. Games and activities are specially planned to improve coordination, team-building, and motor skills in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Students who are enrolled on Fridays attend Breakout Fitness for Kids. This unique program builds strength, flexibility, coordination, and team building through the age appropriate and fun activities. Students attend a half hour session.