What Makes PALS Unique
Small class sizes • Low student-teacher ratio
Less structure & more child-directed activities
Co-op program enhances parental involvement
Co-op program reduces tuition
Flexible days -parents choose 1, 2, or 3 days/week
What Makes PALS unique . . .
Our mission is to provide a loving and learning environment for children and a support ministry to their families.
Our educational philosophy is based on the theories of Jean Piaget and Erik Erikson. We believe that:
• The primary developmental task for a baby, is to develop a sense of trust. If, when babies cry, someone usually helps them - changes their diapers, feeds them, comforts them - the babies realize that the world is generally a safe and trustworthy, and not a frightening place. Once that foundation of trust is laid, they can move to the next stage of development.
• The primary developmental task for a toddler is independence. That is why their favorite word becomes, “No!” And it is why they want to “do it myself!” When toddlers are allowed to do things for themselves, in a setting where they can be successful, they develop a sense of independence and are free to move on to their next task.
• The primary developmental task of children ages 3 - 5 years old is to play, to explore, to initiate activities, and to test limits. Children who are allowed to play, to make reasonable choices, to explore a safe environment, and to experience appropriate limits, at this age, will naturally turn to learning to read, write and do arithmetic when they are about 6 years old.
Therefore, at PALS, we provide children with opportunities to do things for themselves, while giving them enough guidance to enable them to succeed.
We comfort them when they fail and encourage them to give it another try.
We understand that children respond best to simple, concise instructions.
We follow a regular daily schedule, while allowing for flexibility as needed.
We provide children with appropriate choices and time to finish what they are doing.