Philosophy
At the FirstHealth Child Development Center, we believe that all children have unique human gifts and each – through the process of experiencing joy, understanding, kindness and enrichment – will reach his or her maximum human potential.

Our Commitment is…

• to provide a stimulating child-oriented environment. Learning centers in each classroom are arranged to offer challenging play, exploration, creativity and success;
• to provide positive methods of child guidance that promote feelings of self-worth;
• to develop curiosity and independence in a safe environment;
• to maintain an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust.

We Believe…

• that the child’s home is the most important factor in a child’s development. We will always strive to support and complement the family in order to promote the healthy development of the child.
• that the dignity and worth of each family is important.
• that loving, trusting and respecting each child makes that child capable of loving, trusting and respecting others.
• that each child should be supported in his/her development of a positive self-image.
• that it is important to meet each child’s need for physical, emotional, social and cognitive growth.
• that the needs of children change as they grow; that programs must respond in content and structure by using the best techniques in early childhood education.
• that children deserve a nurturing, safe and happy environment, which supports their natural curiosity and desire to learn.
• that children deserve to have teachers who are capable and caring.

Curriculum
The FirstHealth Child Development Center uses The Creative Curriculum model that establishes age-related goals across a developmental continuum. Through a carefully prepared environment, teachers plan activities and experiences that support theme-based inquiries to promote growth in each domain of development (i.e., cognitive, motor, social-emotional, etc.). Inherent to this approach is a strong emphasis on meaningful play mediated by intentional teacher interactions and positive peer-group relationships.