Glankler Preschool, in collaboration with the Glankler Early Learning Center, offers a unique and inclusive program designed to meet the needs of children with special needs. This article explores the key features that make Glankler Preschool stand out in its commitment to inclusive early childhood education.
Glankler Preschool’s educational philosophy is rooted in research-based early childhood literature and adheres to the California State Standards through the Preschool Learning Foundation guidelines and the Creative Curriculum for Preschoolers. The program focuses on the holistic development of each child, encompassing physical and health, social-emotional, language, cognitive, and perceptual and motor development. The core belief is that hands-on learning through a variety of materials allows children to learn and grow through exploration and discovery. This approach is especially beneficial for children with special needs, who often thrive in environments that cater to different learning styles.
Children playing with blocks
A key differentiator of the Glankler Preschool program is its strong emphasis on inclusion. The program actively integrates children with special needs into the classroom environment, fostering a sense of belonging and community. This inclusive setting allows all children to learn from and with each other, developing crucial social skills and empathy. The curriculum is specifically designed to promote the physical, intellectual, and social-emotional growth of every child, following current best practices and research in special education.
Collaboration is at the heart of Glankler’s special needs program. Teachers and support staff from the Glankler Early Learning Center work closely with the preschool staff to ensure that the program effectively addresses the unique needs of each student. This collaborative approach allows for individualized attention, customized learning plans, and consistent support for children with special needs.
Furthermore, two dedicated para-educators from Glankler Early Learning Center provide additional support to students with special needs in the after-school program. These para-educators focus on fostering language development, socialization skills, and pre-academic readiness. They also play a crucial role in adapting the learning environment to meet individual needs, ensuring that every child feels comfortable and supported.
The small class size at the Steven Millard Elementary preschool program, with fewer than 10 children on average, allows teachers to provide individualized attention and tailor instruction to each child’s learning style. This low student-to-teacher ratio is particularly beneficial for children with special needs, as it allows for more focused support and personalized learning experiences.
The daily schedule at Glankler Preschool incorporates a diverse range of activities aligned with monthly and weekly themes. These activities, carefully planned to engage different learning styles, include:
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Arts and Crafts
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Cooking
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Small Group Work
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Outdoor Exploration
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Gardening
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Math and Science Activities
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Literacy Activities
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Pre-Academic Readiness
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Table Activities
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Snack Time/Lunch
Glankler Preschool’s commitment to inclusion, collaboration, and individualized learning creates a nurturing and stimulating environment where children with special needs can thrive. The program’s focus on hands-on learning, dedicated staff, and comprehensive curriculum ensures that every child receives the support they need to reach their full potential.
