Each class schedule has an element of consistency day-to-day, but also remains flexible in response to the children’s daily needs, weather and other seasonal events. Regardless, every day brings something new and different.

The teachers plan daily activities based on the interests of the children and the goals of the curriculum, and with the preschools’ natural setting, this combination provides a treasure trove of opportunities and adventure. Here’s a sample day:

Morning Gathering

This is a time to say “good morning”, read a book as a group, share the schedule for the day and get ready for our adventures!

Choice Time and Small Group Exploration in the Indoor Classroom

(Some children begin their day outside)

During this time children are free to explore a variety of areas in the classroom, such as blocks, art, library, science and much more. Children are encouraged to explore at their own pace and can choose to play on their own or with their peers.  During choice time, teachers are observing children, facilitating interactions when necessary, and encouraging children to participate in small group projects such as art, cooking and learning activities related to the unit of study.

Snack

(indoors or outdoors)

Snack time is a lively time and a vital link into our curriculum that aims to nourish the whole child by providing opportunities to learn about the variety of cultural, nutritional and social significances of food as well as acquire and practice social skills. Children enjoy a family-style snack, which has been brought by today’s parent teacher.

Books and Puzzles

During this time children have the opportunity to slow down, digest their food and are encouraged to look at a book with a friend, share a puzzle, or play quietly with a table-top game or activity as other children finish eating.

Choice Time and Small Group Exploration in the Outdoor Classroom

Children spend time in the Outdoor Classroom on average about half of the day, unless it is very wet, or extremely hot or cold.  IPCP’s Outdoor Classroom encompasses a variety of nooks and crannies that are ever changing and exciting to explore. During this time children are free to explore a variety of areas such as the stump jump, sandbox or spend time looking at the clouds, enjoying a book under the shade of a tree or interacting with the natural landscape at their own pace. They can choose to play on their own or with peers. During our outdoor choice time, teachers are observing children, facilitating interactions when necessary, and encouraging children to participate in small group projects that are rooted in the nature-based curriculum.

Lunch

(indoors or out)

Teachers, children and parent teachers enjoy open, lively conversations about their morning experiences while eating nutritious meals brought from home.

Afternoon Gathering

This is an end-of-day wrap up of the day’s activities and a discussion of tomorrow’s plans with a group meeting and a lively sing-a-long.