PHILOSOPHY

At Happy Child we believe that it is our responsibility as caregivers and educators to create an environment where children are encouraged to play and to solve problems, to make decisions and experience new discoveries, to fantasize and to speak freely, to be heard and to be loved, while remaining safe through it all. With parents as partners, children will learn social competency, develop cognitive, motor and language skills, and expand their understanding of themselves and the surrounding world.

Our discipline philosophy centers on analyzing and solving everyday problems. Through these interactions children are learning how to resolve disputes, learn self-discipline, show respect for others and develop positive outlook (relationships). Teachers facilitate these interactions through the aid of the following (problem solving) techniques:

• Active listening - interpreting and reflecting on the child’s feelings in order to reach a solution.
• Negotiation - talking out and resolving conflicts verbally.
• Setting limits - teaching a child to stay within safe boundaries and to learn self-control. Limits that are based on safety, responsibility, respect and learning.

The partnership between parents and teachers is a critical component of raising a child. We welcome parent involvement in all aspects of our school and the educational process.