Philosophy

Philosophy

• Creative curriculum
• Low teacher-student ratio
• Daily musical circle
• Cultural diversity
• Daily Yoga Circle
• Parent conferences
• Healthy meals & snacks
• State licensed
• Parent involvement welcomed

Mixed-Age Program

In our philosophy, all children benefit from a mixed age environment. The younger children learn by watching the older children – and the older children learn to engage in healthy play with those who are younger than them.  For example, a two-year who observes healthy sharing and conflict resolution between three year olds, in time, will begin to mimic these skills. A four year old will begin to exhibit natural leadership skills based on the fact that they will have internalized the rules, memorized the lyrics, and understood that her/his unique participation is integral to the functioning of the group.

Play Based Learning

Research shows that play based learning can put your child ahead in life. This is because play based learning takes advantage of children’s natural inclination to play.  Children learn relevant life skills in a fun and playful environment in which they are encouraged to explore, experiment and problem solve. With the probing guidance of teachers, learning comes naturally.  While traditional learning environments and direct instruction can cause stress for children, play based learning teaches them motivation, concentration, and inquiry in both self-directed and guided settings. To read further about the benefits of play based learning, we recommend this article.

Attention to Emotional Growth

It is not atypical for a young child to feel overwhelmed and anxious in attending a new day care or preschool.  This is particularly the case for those who have spent most of their time at home with a parent.  We aim to nurture your child through this transition with patience and deep nurturing. Over time, the child will grow to trust her/his teachers and will naturally find their own comfortable social niche.

It is integral for each child to understand that she/he posses unique qualities, talents, and challenges.  It goes without saying that what it is difficult for one child, comes naturally to another. In our non-competitive learning environment, we practice positive reinforcement that underscores each child’s talents. We are patient with the children and teach them to be patient with themselves.  Whether they are learning to share a favorite toy, tie their shoelaces, or add single digits, children need to feel confident in their ability to overcome a struggle.  We provide them with the patience, personalized attention, and nurture to ease along each step of the way.

It is a rare and precious gift for your child to be provided with a warm, safe, and challenging place for the years of early childhood before moving into the demands and rigors of elementary school life. That is what we provide here at Umniya Home Care — and we’re proud of it!

“A positive learning climate in a school for young children is a composite of many things.  It is an attitude that respects children.  It is a place where children receive guidance and encouragement from the responsible adults around them.  It is an environment where children can experiment and try out new ideas without fear or failure.  It is an atmosphere that builds children’s self-confidence so they dare to take risks.  It is an environment that nurtures a love of learning.”

~Carol B. Hillman (20^th Century), U.S. early childhood educator