Toddlers (2 – 3 years old)

Maple Bear teachers understand that young children are naturally effective learners if they are allowed to explore, discover, experiment, pretend and create in play-based environments. Teachers therefore plan and provide activities and experiences that nurture and develop these natural learning responses. At this age, teachers begin to provide Small Group activities that consist of Theme Learning Centers. Large group activities consist of Coming Together (Circle Time). Free Choice Play areas are introduced for this age level and gross motor activities such as music and movement and outdoor play are also a big part of the toddler day. Parents receive a termly assessment report.

Preschool (3 – 4 years old)

Here at our preschool facility in Tempe, Arizona, you will see children being active, both physically and mentally. They are engaged in a variety of learning areas or centers with activities and experiences that are meaningful and interesting to them. You will see children using all their senses to explore and discover through engaging hands-on activities linked to theme topics. Children of this age are encouraged to learn to make connections with past experiences and current learning. Integrating topics with skill development helps the children make sense of the world and their learning. Parents receive a termly assessment report.

Junior Kindergarten (4 – 5 years old)

Learning centers are a big part of the Junior Kindergartener’s day, as children at this age level still need to manipulate, explore, and experiment with real objects to cement their learning. Greater emphasis begins to be placed on English language arts, mathematics, and science and technology, while continuing to educate the whole child, physically, emotionally, and socially. Unique to other programs, Maple Bear provides differential learning through diverse learning styles and stages of development are respected at all times. Parents receive a termly assessment report.