Preschool Philosophy

Olentangy is committed to providing a nurturing, secure, play-based educational setting for young children and their families. We believe that all children are capable of learning when provided with a developmentally/exceptionality appropriate learning opportunities that utilize a combination of play and research-based, student-focused instruction.      

Developmentally appropriate practice embraces the understanding that each child is unique and has their own pattern of growth and development. The environment, curriculum, materials and staff must be responsive to the individual interests and abilities of each child. Differing levels of ability and development are expected, accepted and used to design appropriate learning activities. Appropriate practice encourages instruction to begin at the point of the child’s level of proficiency and proceed along the developmental sequence. 

The preschools’ prepared environment of active play is designed to stimulate and challenge students at a variety of developmental levels. We believe children learn through meaningful play. Our play-based learning opportunities integrate the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, language, self-help and aesthetic areas of development.    

Our staff is well-versed in the use of research-based, student-focused instructional strategies. It is our belief that our staff can best facilitate learning when capitalizing on those teachable moments that occur within the context of the child’s self-directed play or within the context of developmentally appropriate teacher-initiated activities.       

Olentangy preschool staff believes that when families are engaged in the child’s education, the child‘s learning is enhanced, increasing school readiness and future academic success.