Gingerbread House Co-operative Preschool understands that each child is a unique individual. It is our job to continuously examine and reflect on our environment so that children feel confident and comfortable expressing themselves while they are with us. We strive to create a program where children and families feel connected and valued.
In our program children are given the freedom to select and explore all of the activities provided in our classrooms. Classroom centers are directed by the children and reflect their interests and inquires. At Gingerbread House Preschool we engage children through child-directed discovery opportunities which reflect their interests and inquiries. Children are given the freedom to select and explore all of the classroom centers. These centers include small group, and one on one activities which focus on science, literacy, numeracy, sensory play, dramatic play, music and art..
To help create a sense of belonging for the children in our program, we encourage and help to foster social relationships with peers. Forming relationships and feeling connected provides children with a sense of community and acceptance. Social relationships also provide opportunities for turn-taking and sharing which will help to build problem solving skills.
Our Goals
To create a warm, safe, nurturing and engaging environment where children feel a sense of belonging.
To foster confidence, well-being, and self-esteem
To encourage the development of problem solving and interpersonal skills to foster healthy relationships with adults and peers
To encourage and provide opportunities to develop independence skills
To have F-U-N
What is a Cooperative Preschool?
A cooperativepreschool is organized by parents with similar goals who hire a supervisor and trained teachers (via tuition fees) to provide their children with a quality preschool experience. The preschool is administered and maintained by the staff and parents on a non-profit basis. Parents participate by:
Completing parent jobs and serving on our board of directors
Contributing to administrative decisions made at general meetings (two per year)
Fundraising
Attending field trips
Volunteering in the classroom
We are licensed by the Ministry of Education in the Province of Ontario.
Benefits of Preschool
Some people ask themselves, "Why Preschool?" 1. Provides an Opportunity for Growth 2. Helps to Promote Social and Emotional Development 3. The Environment is Structured (though it may not always appear that way...lol) 4. Children Get to make Choices 5. Promotes Language & Cognitive Skills, Motor and Pre-Math & Literacy Skills 6. Take care of themselves & Others 7. Prepares children and starts building on skills required in Kindergarten