Ohana Child Development Center Philosophy Statement
We are inspired by the philosophies and practices of Montessori and RIE education. We recognize the child’s natural desire for knowledge, understanding and respect. We foster self-motivated growth for children in all areas of their development, and provide an experience rich in learning, fresh air and exercise, and musical and artistic expression.
Our teachers are compassionate and caring educators who thoughtfully prepare supportive learning environments based on the child’s individual development stage, needs and interests. We are committed to providing our teachers with the best training and education resources available in support of their mission.
Ohana Child Development Center Education Principles
High Quality Child Development
We develop and delight children and their parents and provide our teachers with a meaningful and well-supported mission.
Our teachers are dedicated early childhood educators with advanced graduate level credentials in Montessori education and are respected professionals in their field.
Our campus, classrooms, and playgrounds are thoughtfully designed and well appointed with resources and supplies to engage children and inspire teachers.
Montessori and RIE Inspired
Our child development approach is inspired by Montessori and RIE education principles.
Respect
All interactions with children are rooted in respect for the child as priceless human beings.
Infants First
The nido (nest) concept we practice means infants develop best in close proximity to families. Ohana allows families close proximity to children during the workday, providing security and closeness, especially crucial for infants in the earliest months of development. Once the Center is fully operational, infants will receive first priority when space is limited.
Calm & Connected Learning Environment
Children learn best in connected relationships with adults and interactions within a prepared environment that meets their interests and developmental needs. Teachers will create an enriching and safe environment with predictable and flexible routines that build confidence and trust.
Caregiving routines such as cleaning up or sitting down to lunch are a time for connection. Full attention is given during these caregiving routines and children are encouraged to participate in the process, building independence.
Whole Child Approach
We use a “whole child approach”, supporting children in all areas of development (cognitive, language, motor, social-emotional, and development of the senses).
Follow the Child
Learning and exploration are child-led, and not teacher directed.
Rewards of Risk
We allow for developmentally appropriate risk-taking which promotes resilience and confidence.
Conflict & Compassion
Children know intrinsically that struggle is a part of growing up. Refining the art of the struggle is how children discover what they are capable of in life. Navigating conflict teaches problem-solving and builds compassion for others.
Independence
We support children in their budding independence, allowing them to do for themselves what they are capable and willing to do, and developing practical life skills.
Artistic Exploration
Artistic exploration is process-driven and not product-driven. Children are able to choose and use the materials and create what they wish.
Language Rich
Language-rich learning helps children learn to communicate their needs and is essential for social and personal development, and emotional regulation. Early language development builds the foundation for reading and writing.
Play
Play is educational and essential to a child’s development and well-being. Play promotes joyful learning that fosters self-regulation, language, cognitive and social competencies as well as content knowledge across disciplines.
Messy Play
Messy play builds brains. Young children are sensory creatures, biologically wired to learn by taking action. Sensory activities strengthen neural pathways and provide new information that helps them make sense of the world.
Uninterrupted Outdoor Play
Unstructured play provides time for children to develop strong friendships and explore and master their interests, leading to better problem-solving and social skills. We will play outdoors in all weather (except when conditions are dangerous).
Child-First
Decisions for instruction and care will be child-centered and principally focused on what is developmentally appropriate for the child.
We Hug
Intentional, emotional refueling moments are core to how we care for children and provide them with a sense of calm and belonging.
Intrinsic Rewards
“Accomplishment as its own reward” develops the ability to be a self-starter and someone who perseveres even when things get tough.
Positive Discipline
Our teachers use Positive Discipline to redirect inappropriate behaviors and to aid in developing social skills.
Parent Partnership
Children learn best when teachers and parents partner to meet their needs. Ohana will offer ongoing support and parent education sessions, and provide ongoing feedback on their children’s development.
300% Candid
Teachers and parents are equally Bandmates in our Bandwidth family. We will practice 300% Candid communication: 100% caring, 100% honest, 100% of the time. Mutual respect and mutual support is essential for healthy teacher/parent relationships.