Our Philosophy

At the Learning Center for Young Children Preschool (LCYC), we believe that children learn best through play. As a play-based, parent participation preschool, we provide a safe and nurturing environment where children can explore, grow, and discover through music, art, drama, cooking, reading, and sensory experiences. Our dedicated teachers and staff design purposeful and developmentally appropriate activities, offering hands-on exploration in every aspect of the classroom. By focusing on a whole-child approach, we emphasize social-emotional development alongside cognitive skills, allowing children the freedom to express themselves as they navigate the world around them.

The strong relationship between parents, teachers, and staff forms the foundation of our school community. When parents invest in this community, it demonstrates to children that their education and personal development are important and valued. Parent engagement plays a crucial role at LCYC, helping children feel secure, accepted, and confident to fulfill their unique potential.

Our Curriculum

Our classes offer age-appropriate and engaging activities designed to promote active learning and creativity in a fun-filled manner:

• Free Play: Children enjoy a variety of activities, including block play, water play, dramatic play, easel painting, play dough, and exploration with books and manipulatives.
• Circle Time: A time to share and learn about particular topics, incorporating reading, movement, and music into the school day.
• Reading: Teachers read captivating books to the class, and children are encouraged to explore books independently.
• Snack: Simple, healthy snacks are served daily, such as crackers, cheese, cereal, bread, and fruits or vegetables. Children should bring reusable water bottles; a bottle-filling station is available for refills. Milk is offered during extended day lunch for participants.
• Outdoor Play: Children enjoy our enclosed playground or, indoors, explore the church’s spacious social hall equipped with tricycles, balls, and climbing equipment.
• Art: Teachers present exciting art experiences, encouraging creativity and valuing the process as much as the end product.
• Music & Movement: Daily engagement in music and movement activities with teachers.

Special Programs

All classes include monthly enrichment programs tailored to age-appropriate levels:

• Yoga: Expressive movement with music, teaching body awareness, mindfulness, and calming techniques.
• Art: Process-based art connecting themes in literature and famous artists, allowing children to express themselves by focusing on the process rather than the outcome.
• Nature: Exploring themes such as plant life cycles, hibernation, seasonal changes, habitats, and the natural world around them.
• Cooking: Special cooking projects held at least once a month in conjunction with the classes’ monthly themes and seasons.

Extended Day Program

Our Extended Day program offers children the opportunity to stay for the afternoon, enjoying lunch, additional outdoor play, rest time, and special projects. Children delight in daily programming themes that include cooking, group games, art, nature, and dramatic play. This continuation of the school day provides additional opportunities for bonding and learning in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

At LCYC, we aim to provide a well-rounded and stimulating environment that promotes active learning and creativity. We invite you to join our vibrant community, where education is a joyful journey shared by children, parents, and educators alike.