The Learning Tree Daycare Curriculum: Nurturing Growth and Discovery
Early childhood is a critical and magical period of development. The Learning Tree daycare in Gallatin, TN, has been dedicated to nurturing young minds since 2003, providing a safe and welcoming environment where children can grow and thrive. The Learning Tree focuses on fostering a love for learning through a structured curriculum and experienced staff.
A Secure and Caring Environment
The safety and health of each child are paramount at The Learning Tree. Security measures include a fingerprint security system to ensure that only authorized individuals can access the facility. Surveillance cameras monitor activities throughout the premises. The staff is thoroughly trained in CPR, first aid, and emergency procedures, and regular fire drills and safety exercises are conducted to ensure preparedness for any situation. The Learning Tree also utilizes cutting-edge sanitation methods to prioritize children’s health.
Experienced and Dedicated Staff
The licensed and certified staff at The Learning Tree have over 30 years of combined experience. They are dedicated to sparking curiosity and fostering a love for learning. Marie Walkow, the "chief Magic Maker," holds a degree in childhood education and is on-site every week.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Learning Beyond and More
The Learning Tree employs a structured curriculum to ensure every child receives a well-rounded education. They use a variety of curricula, including:
- Learning Beyond: Provides a structured framework for comprehensive education.
- The Creative Curriculum®: A comprehensive, research-based, and nationally recognized curriculum that emphasizes effective teaching as the primary tool in helping children achieve learning outcomes. It is built around the developmental theory that children learn best through active exploration of their environment. The planned activities, the organization of the environment, the selection of materials, the daily schedule, and daily interactions with the children are designed to give children a successful early learning experience. The richer the environments, the more concrete opportunities there are for children to learn by interacting with materials and people.
- FunShine Express: A theme-based and developmentally appropriate curriculum for ages 0-5 years. It provides staff with a curriculum guide and ready-to-use lesson plans aligned to early learning standards. This curriculum encompasses all developmental domains, such as language, cognitive, physical, and social. The activities are designed to be hands-on, allowing children to learn through experience within their environment, preparing them for a bright educational future while having fun.
- HighScope Curriculum: Used in the Infant, Toddler, Preschool 2-3s, Preschool 3-4s, and GSRP programs, HighScope encourages exploration, hands-on discovery, independence, and critical thinking.
Programs Offered
The Learning Tree offers a range of programs tailored to different age groups:
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- Infant Program (6 weeks to 12 months): Provides a loving, nurturing space with individualized care, focusing on each baby’s unique needs and growth. Teachers encourage infants to explore and discover the world around them, using play as a foundation for learning.
- Toddler Program (12 months to 2.5 years): Focuses on nurturing independence, communication, and social skills through a flexible yet consistent daily routine. Children enjoy family-style meals with wholesome organic food, and teachers offer gentle support with potty training and early education. Parents stay connected with daily updates through the Procare app.
- Preschool 2-3s Program: Designed to focus on nurturing and growing independence and social skills in an inviting and engaging setting. The HighScope Curriculum inspires active exploration and hands-on discovery.
- Preschool 3-4s Program: Sparks curiosity and helps children grow in a nurturing, play-based environment, using the HighScope Curriculum to encourage hands-on exploration and creative learning.
- Pre-K Program (4 to 5 years): A stepping stone to kindergarten, the program builds literacy, math, and social skills through fun, hands-on activities, nurturing independence, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning.
- Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP): A state-funded preschool program for 4-year-olds that helps prepare children for kindergarten with a focus on early literacy, math, and social-emotional growth. The program uses the HighScope Curriculum to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment.
- School-Age Program (5 to 12 years): Provides a safe, enriching space for children before and after school, offering homework help, fun creative activities, and plenty of outdoor play.
- Summer Camp (5 to 12 years): Combines creative activities, outdoor adventures, and educational projects, with a new theme each week.
- Sweet Peas, Love Bugs & Busy Bees, Wiggle Worms (6 weeks to 1 year):
- Love Bugs & Busy Bees (1 year to 2 years):
- Little Sprouts & Leap Frogs (2 years to 3 years): Potty training will begin in this class.
- Adventurers & Explorers (VPK) (4 years to 5 years): A free three-hour VPK program is offered, with wraparound programs available.
Additional Programs and Features
- ABCmouse.com: As part of the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program, ABCmouse.com is incorporated as a tool to learn and play. Children explore the step-by-step learning path, complete lessons, and engage in independent learning under the supervision of their teacher. Families receive a link to create a free ABCmouse.com classroom-linked account.
- Drop-In Care: Available, but it is recommended to call ahead for availability.
- After School Care: Offered for elementary school children, with care available for school half days and non-school days.
- Summer/Winter/Spring Camp: Available weekly or monthly.
- Spanish Language Inclusion: The Learning Tree speaks English and Spanish, ensuring inclusive care for every family.
- Acceptance of State Certificates: The Learning Tree accepts state certificates, further ensuring inclusive care for every family.
A Focus on Active Learning and Exploration
The Learning Tree emphasizes active learning through exploration, hands-on experiences, and real-world connections. The environment is designed to be rich with opportunities for children to learn by interacting with materials and people. This approach fosters cognitive growth, social-emotional learning, physical development, and creative expression.
Family Involvement
The Learning Tree recognizes that family involvement is key to a child's success. Parents are encouraged to participate in activities and events, fostering a strong partnership between home and school to create a supportive community that enhances the child's learning experience.
Safety and Accessibility
The Learning Tree opens early at 5:30 AM to accommodate working parents. From the touch keypad at the front door to the cameras and alarms throughout the facility, safety is a top priority.
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