OUR PHILOSOPHY
At Pinehurst we believe that children learn best when they are loved, respected, and appreciated. If children are short-changed in self-esteem, we know their development will suffer. Therefore, at the heart of our program is a philosophy that respects the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each child, staff, and family member. We appreciate childhood as a unique and valuable stage of the human life cycle, and provide a safe environment for children socially, emotionally, and physically.
We base our work with children on knowledge of child development theory and research, and we know that children learn best through play. We also believe that children are best understood in the context of family, culture, and society. Our program seeks to provide an environment rich in materials and props that support children’s interests and foster a delight in learning. Through our activities and interactions we nurture and appreciate each individual child knowing this will contribute to a growing positive self-concept and self-identity.
Research, on brain development, shows that positive, supportive relationships are essential during the earliest years of life. We believe that children achieve their fullest potential through caring, stable relationships with teachers; based on trust, respect, and positive regard from infancy through childhood.
OUR OBJECTIVES
The programs and policies of Pinehurst have been designed to accomplish the following objectives:
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To provide an emotionally supportive and nurturing environment for all children in our care.
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To help each child reach maximum self-expression in the areas of intellect, creativity, self-esteem, and self-reliance.
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To provide an anti-bias, culturally relevant environment for each child that reflects a respect for individual and cultural differences.
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To provide activities which teach non-violence and enhance each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
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To create a positive and mutually supportive working relationship with the families of the children in our care.
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To encourage and promote a self-directed staff who work well together as a team.
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To promote continual staff development based on self and professional development.
