We have three Preschool to Pre-Kindergarten groups, each with two teachers. Preschool classes have a maximum of fourteen children and Pre-Kindergarten have a maximum of sixteen children. This low ratio gives us the opportunity to know each child well and plan our curriculum accordingly. The small class size helps children develop a sense of belonging and security. Family members are always welcome in the classroom and as always, parent involvement is always welcome. This gives child and family a shared experience, helps the child view the school as a safe and wonderful place to be, and gives parents a wider perspective of their own.

Our curriculum features hands-on learning with a balance between open-ended activities (spontaneous block play) and self-correcting play (puzzles, for example). This choice allows the different interests and abilities of the children to be expressed fully. We recognize and celebrate individual differences.

Central to our curriculum is the observation that children learn most thoroughly and joyfully through play. Traditional subjects such as math, language skills and social studies are integrated across the curriculum and introduced in the context of play. For example, setting up the dramatic play area as a supermarket gives children chances to count money, sort and classify objects (math); make signs to label shelves or advertise special sales (language); and experience foods from other cultures (social studies). The social learning as they play together is just as crucial to healthy development and underlies children's ability for later academic learning. Our teachers are especially attuned to the emotional quality of classroom interactions and to help children identify emotions (their own and others') and learn problem-solving strategies.

For additional insight into the philosophy La Luz ECC follows, please see the following article titled "Another Look at What Young Children Should be Learning" by Dr. Lillian Katz. The information contained in this writing is fundamental to our program philosophy.

The daily schedule includes time for choice, both indoors and outside, along with time for active as well as more quiet play. Children work in small groups, large groups and alone. The playground is seen as part of the classroom, not only because of the importance of physical exercise, but also because we "bring the inside out", by providing materials and interactions that encourage a wide variety of activities outside. We have easels, sidewalk chalk and an outdoor playhouse as well as tricycles, swings and climbers.

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