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Wildwood Park District – 33325 Sears Boulevard – Wildwood, IL 60030
Phone (847)223-7275 Fax (847)223-2820
SCHOOLHOUSE ADVENTURES PRESCHOOL
 
Philosophy

            The Schoolhouse Adventures Preschool is a developmentally appropriate program for children ages 3 to 5 years. We believe children benefit most by being exposed to a variety of information that will build upon their interests and natural curiosity. The program includes academic topics such as shapes, colors and number & letter recognition. Other areas explored are simple math, science, nature, cooking, creative art & music, walking excursions, outdoor play and a variety of subject study themes. Social, emotional and physical development is integrated with academics to meet the needs of the whole child and to better prepare them for Kindergarten. Curriculum is taught through a balance of teacher-directed (theme) lessons and child-directed (center play) activities. Children learn best though sensory, hands-on activities that encourage problem solving in real life situations.
 
            At the Schoolhouse adventures Preschool, we view a child’s play as their “work”. Play provides opportunities to explore and make sense of the world around them. We provide various “centers” to allow children to gain self-confidence and independence as they find success in their choice of activities. These centers provide a safe environment for children to socialize and work together. Center activities include art, blocks, dramatic play, reading, science, math, manipulative skills and more.
 
            Schoolhouse Adventures Preschool curriculum is based on a list of prerequisites listed from Woodland School District Kindergarten teachers. The list includes: talking in complete sentences, sitting & listening attentively, some mastery of gross motor skills, the ability to catch and throw objects, ability to follow one to two-step directions, mastery of some fine motor skills and the ability to print their first name. The alphabet and numbers will be taught throughout the school year. Our goal concerning the alphabet is to have recognition of the letters and the sounds they make (as requested by Woodland School). Although this is our goal, we would never discourage the natural curiosity of the children to learn the letters of the alphabet at their own pace.
 
            We believe each child is an individual whose ideas deserve respect and support from their peers and teachers. We encourage children to express their opinions, follow their curiosity (within safe limits) and develop at their own pace. Children and staff work cooperatively to set guidelines for the classroom to provide a successful learning environment. It is our belief when children participate in the rule-making process they develop a sense of ownership and community in the classroom.
 
            The ultimate goal of the Schoolhouse Adventures Preschool is to provide your child with a positive environment filled with great friends and fun activities. We believe that these things will ensure a foundation for independence and good self-esteem.
 

Adjusting to School

            Saying good-bye to Mom or Dad is never easy for a child, especially on the first day of a new experience such as school. We promise to make the atmosphere as warm and inviting as possible to help ease the situation. Your child’s teacher/teacher aide will greet you at the door and will do their best to comfort any nervous or upset children. One way you can help your child is by encouraging a positive and excited attitude about school. Remind you child that there will be many fun things to do and children to play with. It is also helpful to establish a drop-off/pick-up routine, such as a hug and kiss or special handshake at drop-off with a promise to pick the child up after class is over for the day. As each school day passes it will become easier for your child to say good-bye. Remember that it is normal for children to be nervous about a new experience. We assure you the tears and hesitation only last for a short time. In addition, as odd as it may seem, it is much easier for the child to adjust if they know Mom or Dad has left. Waiting outside the school or peeking in windows to check on your child inhibits their ability to relax and can upset other children as well. However if you have any questions or concerns about your child in school you are welcome to call any time. One final way to help your child adjust to the new situation of attending school is by always being prompt at arrival and dismissal. This will help your child continue to develop their daily routine. It will also ensure your child does not miss any activities when they arrive late, and will keep them from feeling nervous when they are being picked up late.
 

Contacting the Preschool

            As the school year draws closer, you will receive a handbook that will explain all of the policies and descriptions of the curriculum. In the meantime, if you have any questions at all you can contact Schoolhouse Director Kathy Miller or the Wildwood Park District office at (847)223-7275.