First, The Child Series

This second article takes a closer look at FPPK’s progressive teaching approach. [Click here for the first, introductory article.]

What Is the Ideal Way to Learn?

When it comes to a learning approach for your child, you want the best. So, is that Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, or Bank Street?

Answer: How about all of them?

The Ideal Learning approach draws from the world's renowned early childhood approaches to create one of the most robust ways to teach young children. The core principles are similar—they all agree: The child always comes first!

Ideal Learning is exciting for most children because the focus is on the child.

• Children love to learn through play

• Social interactions teach essential relationship lessons 

• New experiences expand a child’s world

• Teachers guide and personalize lessons for each child’s abilities

• Their environment matches the age and size of the child

• Foster independence that gives children confidence

“As teachers, we build our lesson plans around the children, in this case, based on the needs of the children who make up our classes,” said Kristina Satchell, FPPK’s director. “We like to highlight each group’s strengths, so children can feel confident completing tasks, while moving them forward and working on skills that the children need to strengthen.” 

First Presbyterian Preschool and Kindergarten is a child-centered, family-driven school located on the beautiful grounds of the First Presbyterian Church in Englewood, New Jersey. Our nurturing program serves children 2 to kindergarten age and is non-sectarian, meaning we do not provide religious instruction.

First, The Child is an article series by FPPK to take a closer look at the school’s progressive approach to education.