1. Montessori
- Philosophy: Child-centered, based on self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play.
- Environment: Prepared environment with mixed-age classrooms.
- Key Features: Emphasis on independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological development.
2. Reggio Emilia
- Philosophy: Child-centered, with a focus on exploration, expression, and community.
- Environment: Rich in resources, often featuring open spaces and natural materials.
- Key Features: Projects and experiences guided by children's interests, strong emphasis on the role of the environment as the third teacher.
3. Waldorf (Steiner)
- Philosophy: Holistic, aiming to educate the head, heart, and hands.
- Environment: Warm, home-like setting with natural materials.
- Key Features: Rhythm and routine, artistic and imaginative play, strong emphasis on storytelling, singing, and movement.
4. HighScope
- Philosophy: Active participatory learning, where children are encouraged to plan, do, and review their activities.
- Environment: Organized into interest areas with well-defined spaces for specific activities.
- Key Features: Consistent daily routine, key experiences in child development, use of the “plan-do-review” process.
5. Bank Street (Developmental-Interaction)
- Philosophy: Developmental-interaction approach, focusing on the whole child and learning through experience.
- Environment: Rich in materials that encourage exploration and expression.
- Key Features: Emphasis on social studies, integrated curriculum, and the importance of play in learning.
6. Head Start
- Philosophy: Comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services.
- Environment: Supportive and inclusive, often serving low-income families.
- Key Features: Focus on school readiness, family engagement, and social services.
7. Language Immersion
- Philosophy: Bilingual or multilingual education, aiming for fluency in a second language.
- Environment: Total immersion or partial immersion in a target language.
- Key Features: Daily instruction in the target language, cultural experiences, and bilingual teachers.
8. Religious-Affiliated
- Philosophy: Based on specific religious beliefs and values.
- Environment: Reflects religious teachings and practices.
- Key Features: Religious instruction, values-based curriculum, and community involvement.
9. Cooperative Preschools
- Philosophy: Parent participation and community involvement.
- Environment: Parents work closely with teachers and participate in classroom activities.
- Key Features: Parent education, collaborative decision-making, and shared responsibilities.
10. Forest Schools
- Philosophy: Outdoor education, focusing on nature-based learning and environmental stewardship.
- Environment: Primarily outdoors, in natural settings such as forests or parks.
- Key Features: Child-led learning, exploration of natural environments, and development of physical skills and resilience.
Tags:
Preschool