Our philosophy
At Glenridge, curriculum structure emerges from the children's interests, needs, and desires so that learning is concrete and meaningful to each child. Children learn through play and when they play in Glen Canyon they learn about themselves and the world around them. We play canyon raccoon on the rocks, count leaves on the ground, and examine bugs under magnifiers. We watch the seasons change, hunt for animal tracks in the dirt, count banana slugs on hikes, and dig up worms on rainy days. These experiences stimulate a child's social, physical, and cognitive development; encourage their innate sense of curiosity and wonder; and allow them to feel connected with the natural world.
Central to our teaching is the belief that children need to learn how to express, identify, and validate emotions and to develop social skills. Also, children need adult nurturing in developing problem-solving and intellectual abilities as well as the shared experiences of communication and language. With our diverse curriculum and unique natural setting, we focus on the children's needs, abilities, and interests in order to promote each child's growing self-esteem and self-concept.
Glenridge is a member of the California Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools (CCPPNS), a statewide community of parents and educators committed to teaching and inspiring families through parent involvement and mutual support.
