Preschool Philosophy
BackpackOur goal is to provide a language-based curriculum within a caring supportive environment. We believe language is the key to academic and social development. Verbal communication is the cornerstone of our curriculum.

Another aspect of our curriculum is to build self-esteem so that children grow to see themselves as important and competent individuals.

We recognize and value individual differences and aim to provide diverse experiences and opportunities for learning. The premise of early education begins with each child as an individual having unique developmental capabilities, and learning styles.

We recognize the universal milestones of child development. Our approach to early childhood curriculum is based on what we know to be age appropriate practices for all young children.

Our curricular approach is based on the guidelines for Preschool Learning Experiences recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Education. As a team we continuously strive to develop programs that will provide preschoolers with the skills they need to become successful communicators and confident learners.
 
Overview
The program consists of children aged three to five years old with identified special needs as well as typically developing peers. There are two preschool classrooms. The Preschool 3 year-old program services children aged three to four years old. The Preschool 4 year-old program services children ages four and five.

The Preschool 3 year-old program and the Preschool 4 year- old program service children aged three to five who demonstrate a significant delay in more than one developmental area.
 
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Preschool Faculty
Our faculty is comprised of a team of professionals specific to preschool programs. This team may include:
 
bullet Early Childhood/Special Needs Teacher
bullet Speech and Language Pathologist
bullet Occupational Therapist
bullet Physical Therapist
bullet Teaching Assistant

The Preschool team will conduct screenings, individual evaluations and provide appropriate referrals. Our intent is to serve the needs of young children by providing early detection and intervention for learning difficulties and developmental delays.
 

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Peers
bullet Children must demonstrate developmentally appropriate speech, language and social skills.
bullet Peers must participate in a group screening.
bullet Transportation is not available.
bullet If the number of applicants for peers exceeds the number of spaces available in the program, candidates will be chosen by lottery.

Preschool 3 year-old peers

bullet Children must be three years of age by September of current school year.
bullet Peers attend two days/week
bullet Tuition is $500/year, payable in two installments, in September and January.

Preschool 4 year-old peers

bullet Children must be four years of age by September of the current school year.
bullet Peers attend three days/week
bullet Tuition is $1000/year, payable in two installments, in September and January.
 
Referral
bullet If your child participates in an early intervention program, please have your service coordinator contact the Cedar School Preschool Department.
 
bullet If you are concerned about your child’s development, please contact Cedar School Preschool Department regarding monthly screenings for special needs.
 

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