Programs
At Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center we are inspired by the Reggio Emilia Philosophy. We believe in providing opportunities to aid our children in intentional exploration and engagement using a multitude of materials and experiences. We curate the love of learning by enhancing curricula experiences in order to support children's language development, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills and social emotional well-being.
Safety
Smart Start Childcare and Learning has received the highest, 4-Star Parent Aware Rating which means we go above and beyond state licensing standards to ensure safety, exceed continuing education requirements and demonstrate commitment to ongoing quality improvement. Our staff are certified in pediatric CPR and first aid and undergo re-certification every year. Indoor and outdoor safety checks are completed every day and a risk reduction plan is created and reviewed bi-annually to prevent potential injuries from occurring. In addition to having a registered nurse onsite, we also have a health consultant visit every month to educate our team on a variety of elements related to health, safety and illness prevention.
Curriculum
Our belief is that each child progresses at his/her own unique pace, therefore, activities are tailored to meet the individual needs of every child while in our group setting. Our daily structured and unstructured rituals are based on The Creative Curriculum which is the same curriculum Stillwater Schools use for Kindergarten screening and school readiness assessments. In addition to The Creative Curriculum, we also utilize principles of Emergent Curriculum and Reggio.
Our Curriculum
The Creative Curriculum is designed to create daily routines and meaningful experiences that respond to children’s strengths, interests and needs. Our curriculum is fully aligned with the Head Start Child Development and Early Learning Framework and state early learning standards. Using exploration and discovery as a way of learning, The Creative Curriculum enables children to develop confidence, creativity and lifelong critical thinking skills.
Studies show birth through 5 years of age are the most important years for brain development. We take every advantage of immersing our curriculum into all activities throughout our day with the commitment to ensure all Smart Start children are Kindergarten and school ready.
Activities Centered Around Health & Wellness
At Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center, our activities are designed to meet the goals and objectives of promoting the physical, intellectual, social and emotional development of the children in each age category and are focused on eleven interest areas: Blocks, Dramatic play, Toys and Games, Art, Library, Discovery, Sand and Water, Music and Movement, Cooking, Computers, and Outdoors.