Center-Based Approach

Our classroom is organized into "centers". There are clearly defined, well-equipped interest areas, arranged to promote decision-making, cooperation, active participation, experimentation, and independence. The teacher helps the children explore by asking open-ended questions and providing materials and activities that build on children's interests and experiences.

Our unique center management system gives children autonomy when choosing the type of play they wish to engage in, while assuring that they all have an equal opportunity to try all types of play.

"My daughter went through a phase where she spent most of her time in the Pretend Center with the play kitchen and baby dolls," said a PNS parent of 6 years. "To encourage her to branch out, Mrs. Anderson would join her in her pretend play for few minutes, and then say, 'I'm done playing pretend for a while.  Do you want to play blocks with me now?'  Then my daughter started playing in other areas too."