A pre-school curriculum is followed from September through June with reviews throughout the summer. One letter is emphasized about every two weeks.  Themes are learned according to this letter (for example, "Mm" is for measuring and money).Also, fine motor skills (cutting, tracing etc.), shapes, colors and later on, writing and pre-reading are also emphasized.  Circle time, held about three times a week, usually includes some combination of the following : the ABC's, the calendar and weather, songs, games discussions, a story, arts & crafts (which are usually coordinated with the letter or theme) and age-appropriate work sheets.

 

Seasons, holidays and birthdays are also celebrated.  The Halloween and Christmas parties (with a visit from Santa) are the most popular.

 

A typical day at Seems Like Home Family Day Care:

* Breakfast (8:30 - 9:30 AM) 

* Free Play (about 9:30 - 11:00 AM)

* AM Snack (about 11:00 - 11:15 AM)

* Circle Time and Arts & Crafts  (about 11:15 - 12:30 AM)

* Outdoor Activity (about 12:30 -1:15PM) 

* Lunch (about 1:15 - 2:00PM)

 

* Rest time (about 2:00 - 4:00 PM depending on  child's age)

 

* PM Snack (about 4:00 - 4:30 PM)

 

* Outdoor Play/Pick Up (4:30 - 5:30PM)

 

 

Children appreciate structure and they like to know "what's next". Of course all the times stated above are approximate and may vary based on the normal unpredictability we all experience when dealing with children.

 

Music is played in the background as the children develop important skills while playing either together or alone - there's enough room for both! Books, art materials, a corn table, legos, blocks, doll houses and furniture and much more are within easy reach.

 

Games such as Yahtzee, Trouble, Go Fish and Uno are all within easy reach and are played very much during the week.  The Chicken Dance, Freeze Dance, the Hokey Pokey and other types of music and movement activities are also enjoyed.