Curriculum:
Willow Creek Preschool uses the Wee Learn Curriculum (a Faith-based curriculum recognized for VPK). Philosophically it is a hands-on curriculum that encourages participation from students and open ended, individual outcome. Self-esteem through students thought or project is built through independent and accepted results.
We have also incorporated the Creative Curriculum as a resource as well. All written language is taught phonetically and math is hands-on learning. We encourage individualized scaffolding in the classroom and through playful teaching, students (who are developmentally ready) are highly prepared for Kindergarten when they leave Willow Creek.
Lesson plans are posted in classrooms and monthly calendars are given to parents indicating the Unit of study as well as other information.
Willow Creek Preschool also integrates STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) into the curriculum. Children are encouraged through STEM activities to plan, predict, identify problems, solve problems, design, sequence, and pattern, share discoveries, explore shapes, use tools and ask questions.
Each age group uses our “Discovery Room” 4-5 weeks each year to enhance that week’s unit. The Discovery Room is set up with puzzles, sensory tables, games and props related to that week’s unit. Each class in that age group has access to the fun learning environment 30 minutes each day that week.
Spiritual Growth:
Our Faith is interwoven throughout each day of school. Our goal is to nurture a love of God and an understanding of His Son, Jesus Christ. We encourage children to see God in everything and to gain the knowledge of His constant love and presence. Each age group has a Bible reading plan that is joyfully carried out.
Children also attend chapel weekly from 9:15-9:35. Chapel is a time of singing fun songs of faith and a Bible story. Willow Creek Church staff and other leaders take turns teaching the Bible lesson. Parents are invited to join us for chapel at any time throughout the school year.
Music:
Our music program is based on fun and physical activity. Children learn listening skills, rhythm, knowledge of instruments, singing, memorization and movement to music. We have also married into our music program the S.M.I.L.E. Lab (Sensory Motor Intense Learning Environment). S.M.I.L.E. uses large motor and fine motor activities to challenge, encourage and grow children through intentional activities. Children are given hands-on time at fun and unique stations that increase brain development, hand eye coordination, balance, core strength and learning capacity through play and defined cross-over movements. This program has been proven to develop brain connections which promote learning potential.
Playground:
Willow Creek has an excellent playground designed to encourage both independent and cooperative play. Children visit the playground 30 minutes a day (2 year olds are outside for two 30 minute blocks) and are supervised by their teacher. We love our playground! It consists of swings, slides, climbing equipment, plenty of open space for free running and imaginative play.
