Pre-School Overview: Threes to Fives

Reggio Emilia -- an inspired (and inspiring) approach to children
Riverfield has implemented methods from the internationally acclaimed Reggio Approach, used by schools in the Italian community of Reggio Emilia. This approach views each child as a strong, rich, capable learner who thrives in a nurturing environment of creativity and involvement with peers, teachers, families and the community.

Developmentally Appropriate
Riverfield's hands-on philosophy of learning reinforces the three, four and five-year-olds’ view of school as a time to explore and discover. Teachers create the environment in which children interact and learn in child-initiated, self-directed activities. A developmentally appropriate curriculum stimulates their natural curiosity and builds upon the child's desire to learn.

More One-On-One
Mixed-age groupings invite cooperation and minimize competitive pressure on children. Individuals and small groups of children participate in different kinds of work directly with or alongside each other and make contributions to the group's efforts. Children select what to do and when or how to do what they have chosen during center time.

Enticing Exploration
Classrooms are arranged in interest centers that promote active play and learning. Children have a choice of areas to explore. Reading books, listening to music, constructing with blocks, role-playing, creating works of art, woodworking, cooking and discovering with science materials are some of the many opportunities for exploration. The curriculum is personalized to allow each child to develop at his or her own pace, with teachers scaffolding children’s learning by providing materials and equipment and facilitating experiences as they observe and interact with the children.

Maintaining a Balance
Daily schedules include a balance of active and quiet periods of time. Interest centers allow children to become decision-makers and problem-solvers. Blocks of time for learning centers and teacher-led group times are planned daily as well as outdoor play. Children have opportunities to work in the Art Studio (Atelier) in the Commons. Snack, lunch and rest times complete the day.

Enrichment Opportunities
Field trips help children develop a better understanding of their community and let them enjoy different community settings, social experiences and play settings. Children take outdoor walks in and around our campus and our barnyard, pond and hiking trails throughout the year. A special feature in this age group is a "Buddy Class," an older Riverfield class that shares time to read, hike, play and enjoy activities together.

Close-Knit Relationships
The Family Group consists of eleven or twelve children and one teacher. During the day, children enjoy literature, songs, poetry and focus group discussions. By giving the children opportunities to share their thoughts and discuss topics of interest within a small group, each child learns to confidently communicate in a group setting. Discussions shared by the group are often recorded and documented for all to read and revisit as project work develops.

Encouraging Intellectual Growth
Children are encouraged to ask questions, explore and discover. Along with helping children grow intellectually, Riverfield faculty nurtures in each child a positive self-image. Experiences throughout the day allow for social growth and emotional development. Teachers plan, provide and guide the whole child, encouraging fun, firsthand experiences while learning.

Passionate Parent Praise:
"The Riverfield teachers have such caring, love and devotion toward their jobs and the children. It is not just a school, it is an educational experience geared toward the child."

Kudos for Quality:
Riverfield was the first Tulsa school to be NAEYC accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, a division of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and is licensed as a Child Care Facility by the Department of Human Services.