The Shlenker Early Childhood program takes a "whole child" approach to early education by encouraging the social, emotional, cognitive, physical and spiritual growth of each child. Our program uses an environmentally based curriculum in which we create a classroom environment that is appropriate to the children's level of development. The classroom is organized into interest areas, or learning centers, where children are encouraged to explore not only the learning materials, but also their relationships with peers and adults. The classroom teacher acts as a facilitator to the child's learning, responding to the individual needs of each child. Activities focus on hands-on learning through interactive play and individualized instruction so that children are challenged, but not frustrated.

During the early childhood years, the primary developmental tasks children face are building trust, gaining autonomy and self-control, and developing competence and initiative. The Shlenker program supports these developmental milestones by providing opportunities for children to develop their own interests and pursue activities they select on their own. Children are encouraged to make decisions for themselves and thus experience a sense of control over their lives. The teachers listen to the children, seek out their ideas, and allow them to express themselves. At the same time, we set clear, age-appropriate expectations for behavior in an effort to engender success and minimize frustration. Children are encouraged to learn from their mistakes, to explore, and to take risks.

Our goal in Early Childhood is to nurture and nourish the spirit of the child. Children come to us naturally curious and eager to learn. When they leave us and move on to kindergarten, they have a strong sense of power and self-confidence and are ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead.