WPSN: River Room Threes

Our three year olds wonder, explore, and share ideas while building a community of learners.

3 Days AM classes meet Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 9–11:15
4 Days PM class meets Monday through Thursday, 12:45 – 3:00
(COMING IN ’08-’09: 5 Days AM classes meet Mon-Fri, 9–11:15)
All groups have 18 children with two co-teachers and an assistant teacher one to three days/week

At WPSN we are acutely aware of the importance of a successful beginning at preschool. For this reason we start each school year with a home visit by both teachers to allow children to meet us first in a familiar and safe environment. Our gentle separation process allows for school visits, a near-by parent, if needed, and respects individual differences among children.

Great emphasis during this year is on becoming autonomous. There is nothing better than the feeling of doing something for yourself for the first time, be it putting on your jacket, washing your own hands or telling a classmate that you don’t like something that they are doing! We break down tasks into appropriate steps so that children can feel successful while they are growing. By modeling appropriate language and behavior we help them navigate their "3 year old world."

While exploring the carefully planned environment designed to promote experience with science, music, movement, art, literature, imaginative and physical play we help children enter into play with each other, gradually building relationships and friendships. It is in these well-guided play experiences that children test ideas, emotions, and try out different social roles. It is the true work of childhood.