The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is an independent organization that promotes high standards in early childhood education. Their accreditation program helps parents find high-quality preschools for their children.
It credentials educational programs on 10 standards and more than 400 related criteria. Here’s a brief overview of the NAEYC standards. When choosing a preschool for your child, consider how well each of the following criteria is met, and ask questions about any aspect of the curriculum, staff or teaching methods that may not be apparent.
Relationships
The staff encourages students to work and play together. Teachers talk to the children in warm, reassuring tones, compliment them on work that is well done, and help them feel secure. The staff aids students in resolving conflicts by asking questions and trying different solutions.
Curriculum
The school’s curriculum addresses children’s social, emotional, physical, cognitive and language skills. Planned activities have goals for students in theses areas, along with the materials and routines needed to achieve them.
Teaching
Instructors supervise all children carefully and provide both indoor and (weather permitting) outdoor activities. Students have the chance to work and play both individually and in groups. Teachers display students’ artwork or writing to share their progress with the rest of the class and foster a sense of self-esteem.
Assessment of Child’s Progress
The school’s programs use checklists, observation and other methods to assess each student’s progress. These methods are age-appropriate and address the child’s aptitude in math, science, and language, as well as physical, emotional, social and cognitive skills.
Health
The school provides a safe environment for children to learn and play. Health and nutrition are highlighted. The staff is trained in pediatric first aid, and they have a clear plan for responding to children’s injuries or illnesses. Any food or snacks served in class are wholesome and nutritious.
Teachers
The school’s teachers have specialized credentials in childhood development and education. They promote ongoing teacher education and train new hires and teaching assistants in a set list of procedures.
Families
Families are encouraged to take an active part in their children’s education, and their scheduled parent-teacher meetings throughout the school year to discuss students’ progress and other matters. Curriculum and policies are presented to families in a language they can understand.
Community Relationships
The program arranges outings to zoos, museums and other points of interest, or has representatives from the organizations come to the school. Artists, musicians and other local performers occasionally provide entertainment and special classes for the children.
Physical Environment
The school’s premises are clean and well-maintained, both indoors and outdoors (playground, picnic area, parking lot). Fences protect outdoor play areas from the street and other potentially dangerous areas. Fire extinguisher, first aid kits and fire alarms are available or installed.
Leadership and Management
The school’s administrator has proper credentials, including a degree from a four-year college and courses in early childhood education. The school has a license from an applicable state agency and written policies available for parents of students and prospective students to peruse.
Apple Creek Preschool serves Allen and Frisco, Texas and surrounding areas. It is accredited by the NAEYC. To learn more about our early education programs for two, three and four-year-olds, and pre-kindergarten, call us at 972-334-0005.
Preschools Allen TX
Apple Creek Preschool
7797 Stonebrook Pkwy
Frisco, Texas 75034
(972) 334-0005
Photo Credit: @DepositPhotos.com/ olesiabilkei
