Footsteps@Nesbit Puma Cubs(Preschool), Belmont

Program Philosophy We believe children learn and master new skills through a variety of play experiences. We acknowledge children know how to learn, we are there to support their learning experience. We understand each child is unique and learns through different approaches. To nurture the whole child, we follow the fundamental principle that children are learning everywhere and all the time. We purposefully observe what the children are doing while considering their developmental level. We provide the children with the space and time to discover and develop their learning. We provide the children and youth with supportive and encouraging staff to assist. Our Teachers Encourage curiosity and enthusiasm for learning Promote cooperative social interactions Support individual creativity and diversity Provide opportunities for children to use their growing bodies to develop a sense of autonomy and self-worth Enhance children’s play in the role as facilitator, guide, partners, and initiators. We believe in continual learning and improvement for our staff and programs. Thoughtfully Designed Spaces To Learn & Play Play is an active, child-initiated process that supports children’s learning Play assists us in offering quality programming, a commitment to provide an experience to enhance the development of each child’s whole self: creative, intellectual, physical, social, and emotional. Our program environments offer a rich variety of spaces, materials, and activities organized to promote children's active exploration and mastery. Classrooms may appear informal at times, however, they are the result of careful planning and structuring to ensure that the needs of each child are met in a supportive and nurturing way. Classrooms are specifically designed to provide a warm, intimate, and secure space for children to learn, explore, and develop at their own pace.