Older Threes - Whales

Studies have found that learning improves when children are engaged in an enjoyable and meaningful activity. That's why every curriculum includes a variety of intriguing activities that stimulate early brain development with a focus on creative play. Although it may all look like kids having fun, it is also learning in action. It's just another way that we make sure your child gets the most out of his or her preschool experience.

Additionally, we spend a lot of time just listening to and talking with preschoolers. This type of positive interaction encourages the development of emotional, language, and social skills, and enhances the development of a positive self-esteem.

Our Curriculum, "The Creative Curriculum", focuses on the concept that children learn best through play. It is important for children to have opportunities to construct their own knowledge through exploration, interaction with materials, and imitation of role models.  Our goal is to provide the foundation for children to achieve the skills they need before continuing their education.

At the core of The Creative Curriculum for Preschool are well-planned learning centers that allow for child choice and self-directed play, small groups, and supportive teaching that prepares children for academic excellence. The development of language, mathematical reasoning, and scientific thought is emphasized throughout all the centers. Changes to the learning environment, activities, and projects reflect emerging interests and individual goals. Learning centers offer guided experiences that encompass all the skills and understandings necessary for optimum development and success in school.

Typical centers include:  Language/Library, Technology/Computers, Construction/Blocks, Science, Dramatic Play, Outdoor Learning, Art/Creative Expression, Music and Movement, Sensory: Sand and Water, Math/Manipulatives

Teachers:

	Michelle Miller Lead teacher My name is Michele Miller.  I started the exciting journey of working with children in 1984.  Since then, I have worked with all ages, and enjoy sharing educational experiences with children.  I am currently earning my degree in early childhood education at Haywood Community college, and I am graduating in December 2008.  I first began my early childhood career at Rock Kiddie Kare, in Madison North Carolina.  I started out as a lead teacher in the preschool classroom.  Over time, I became the director and was able to have full responsibility of the benefit of the center.
	Mary Short AssistantTeacher I have been a member of the Partners In Learning family since 2000. I have my North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and over 20 hours of college credits from Rowan Cabarrus Community College. I have worked at Partners In Learning since 2000. I am pursuing my AAS degree in Early Childhood from Rowan Cabarrus Community College.

Parent Testimonial:

"Ms. Mary has been an excellent influence on my child.  My daughter has a speech/language delay.  She is often difficult to understand and easily becomes agitated.  Mary works with her individually and is very patient with her.  She has given my daughter the confidence to use her words.  I also want to thank Ms. Mary for the wonderful job she does teaching basis skills."
Karen Yousey, M.Ed

"Madelyne has loved the Whales Classroom and the teachers that she has grown so close to.  They have taught her letters, numbers and songs that she teaches to me and her daddy with such pride. However, one of the best things that the Whales class environment has brought out in Madelyne is her personality.  This has been such a joy the past year – seeing her dramatic over exaggerations!  We know that her teachers and classmates accept her in every way because she has no shame or shyness when showing her true emotions.  Everything is openly interpreted in one way or another through Madelyne’s eyes." 
Lara Lawrence

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