Program Information
First Friends Preschool offers a year-round program for children ages 2 to 5 in a mixed-age classroom with up to 24 children.
Our Program Is:
Child-Centered
Relationship-Based
Developmental
Focused on Play
We believe each child is a unique individual whose cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and sensory strengths should be individually supported under the care and guidance of gifted and dedicated teachers.
At First Friends Preschool we understand that relationships are at the foundation of all learning. Positive and secure relationships with peers and teachers during the early years at school lay the foundation for the development of healthy self-esteem, compassion, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. We are dedicated to developing emotionally attuned attachments with our students, and promoting an environment of trust and safety in our classroom.
Curriculum:
Our program is an emergent, project-based curriculum that is developed directly from the interests and daily life of the children in the classroom. We follow the children’s lead with intention and curiosity, and plan daily experiences that address all aspects of child development around what emerges spontaneously in their play, conversations, and relationships over time. This dynamic process allows learning to remain alive, relevant, and deeply engaging for each child.
An emergent curriculum is a child-centered, child-led approach that nurtures curiosity, creativity, purpose, and confidence. It recognizes children as active participants in their own development, capable of guiding their learning through curiosity and exploration. In this play-based approach, children are viewed as the protagonists of their play and education, thriving when they have the freedom to choose and engage with meaningful, hands-on activities at their own pace. Within this context, we believe that each child deserves individualized attention and care for their unique developmental and learning potential to unfold.
Play is the foundation upon which our emergent curriculum is built. Current research in child development and neuroscience show that play is the most powerful driver of growth across all developmental domains - cognitive, language, social, emotional, sensory, and physical. We prioritize creating generous time and space for children to engage in both spontaneous, self-directed play and thoughtfully designed, teacher-supported experiences.
Our program brings together children from different ages to help them naturally develop leadership skills, empathy, and an appreciation for their role in a community. This setting encourages older children to take on leadership roles and become mentors to younger students, promoting meaningful social and emotional growth. The diverse interactions in mixed-aged classrooms reflect real-world social dynamics, preparing children for varied social experiences beyond the school environment.
First Friends Preschool Provides the Foundation for:
Social Skills
Relational & Emotional Thinking
Problem Solving
Creativity
Language Acquisition
Literacy Skills
Mathematics
This foundation will support children to become confident, active, connected, empathetic, joyful and curious lifelong learners.
The Goals of Our Curriculum
Foster secure relationships and a strong sense of belonging
Cultivate curiosity, creativity, confidence, and a love of learning
Foster love, kindness, and respect for self and others
Build social emotional competence and community awareness
Support lifelong learning skills
Daily Rhythm
8:00 - 9:00 am
Early Care
9:00 am
Drop-off
9:00 - 9:45 am
Indoor Exploration
9:45 - 10:00 am
Circle & Snack
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Small Groups & Outside Time
12:00 pm
Lunch
12:30 pm
Nap/Rest, Outside Time
2:30 - 3:00 pm
Snack
Indoor Exploration
2:45 - 3:00 pm
Pick-Up
3:00 - 5:00 pm
Extended Care
Schedule a Tour
We invite you to experience the magic of our preschool firsthand! Come take a tour and discover the nurturing environment, dedicated educators, and enriching activities that await your child.
Schedule your visit today and see why families love being part of our preschool community.