Madison School for Young Children

A Curriculum that Nurtures Growth and Creativity

Madison School for Young Children fosters a child-centered curriculum that supports intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development. We celebrate the open-ended nature of learning, where each activity sparks curiosity and discovery. Teachers adapt to children's individual growth and interests, allowing for creative exploration. Our approach encourages flexibility, ensuring every experience is enriching and tailored to each child's needs, fostering skills for future success.

Our Curriculum Framework

CT ELDS & NAEYC Standards

Our curriculum is based on the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS), which aligns with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) approved guidelines. These frameworks provide a comprehensive developmental approach across various domains:

  • Social and Emotional Development
  • Physical Development and Health
  • Cognition
  • Creative Arts
  • Language and Literacy
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies

Tracking Progress and Building Skills

Teachers use assessment tools aligned with CT ELDS to track and support each child's progress in these areas. These tools help us ensure that every child develops essential lifelong skills, including creativity, inquisitiveness, flexibility, critical thinking, purposeful reflection, and social learning.

The Reggio Emilia Approach

Empowering Young Minds

The Reggio Emilia Approach emphasizes that every child is a capable, curious, and creative learner. It nurtures self-expression, critical thinking, and collaboration, empowering children to shape their learning experience. This approach fosters a lifelong passion for discovery and creativity, celebrating the joy of learning.

Core Principles

  • Child-Centered Learning: Children are active participants in their educational journey. Their interests and questions guide the curriculum.
  • The Environment as the Third Teacher: Our thoughtfully designed learning spaces inspire creativity and exploration, fostering a sense of wonder and discovery.
  • Collaboration and Relationships: We value strong partnerships among children, educators, families, and the broader community, creating a supportive and interconnected learning ecosystem.
  • Documentation of Learning: Teachers observe and document children's progress through photographs, drawings, and narratives, celebrating achievements and guiding future learning pathways.
  • Expressive Arts Integration: A variety of artistic mediums are incorporated into the curriculum, encouraging children to express their thoughts and emotions in meaningful ways.

NAEYC, A Trusted Standard in Early Education

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) has been a leader in setting the standards for excellence in early childhood education since 1926. As a trusted professional organization, NAEYC supports educators, families, and communities by promoting high-quality early learning experiences. NAEYC is dedicated to ensuring that all children benefit from high-quality education in a nurturing, inclusive, and equitable environment.

What NAEYC Does

NAEYC unites professionals and families in a shared commitment to providing every child with the best possible start in life.

  • Accreditation: NAEYC sets gold-standard benchmarks for early childhood programs, ensuring safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
  • Professional Development: Through workshops, conferences, and resources, NAEYC empowers educators to grow and stay at the forefront of educational excellence.
  • Advocacy: NAEYC advocates for policies that ensure access to quality education for all children, supporting both educators and families.
  • Resources and Research: NAEYC provides evidence-based tools, publications, and guidance to help improve teaching and learning practices.

The Power of Nature-Based Play

We integrate nature-based play into our curriculum, fostering holistic development. Nature provides an ideal space for children to explore and connect with their surroundings, building physical, emotional, and cognitive skills that lay the foundation for lifelong learning. These outdoor experiences nurture curiosity, promote well-being, and support both personal and academic growth.

Why Nature-Based Play Matters

  • Boosts Physical Health: Outdoor activities encourage movement, enhancing motor skills, balance, and overall fitness. Exposure to fresh air and sunlight promotes immune system health and emotional well-being.
  • Enhances Creativity and Problem-Solving: Natural materials like sticks, rocks, and leaves inspire open-ended play, stimulating imagination and critical thinking.
  • Fosters Emotional Resilience: Time spent in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and cultivates mindfulness, helping children develop self-regulation skills.
  • Encourages Social Skills: Outdoor play nurtures teamwork, communication, and empathy as children collaborate to explore and solve challenges.
  • Develops a Connection to the Environment: Early experiences with nature help children develop a lifelong appreciation for the environment and foster a sense of responsibility for the planet.

Connect With Us for More Information

If you have any questions or want to learn more about how our program can support your child's growth, we're here to help. Reach out to us, and let's start a conversation about the bright future ahead for your little one.