Educational Philosophy

Our educational philosophy is the heart of our school and the guiding principle of our teaching. We are a developmental school, which means that we believe all children learn, change and grow at different rates and stages. A constant thread is the belief that all children are unique. and therefore we honor who they are and look for ways to teach based on individual learning styles and interests.  

Crestwood Hills Preschool offers a play-based education.  We strongly believe that children learn through play and free-play is a big part of our daily program.  It is through play that young children learn essential social and emotional skills for life.  

Our program is also child-centered.  The daily activities are often driven by the children’s interests. For example, when a child finds a tiny gem in the playground, we grab cups and collect treasures.  If a child discovers a shell in the sand, we bring out magnifying glasses and discuss the origin and texture.  We let the children lead during singing time on the rug and when they ask to dance, we play tunes.   We believe children learn best in a nurturing environment where they are allowed to discover, explore and create.

Crestwood Hills Preschool is a cooperative and inclusive community, which values diversity in all its forms and honors the social and individual differences of all children and families. In our learning spaces and in our community, we promote learning about and the inclusion of all people with different backgrounds, family dynamics, and personal abilities.  We strive to increase cultural awareness, cognitive skills and empathetic understanding among our students, parents and staff.