Our Programs

Your child will participate in a well-planned program in which growing, sharing, and learning experiences are incorporated into all activities of the day. Typically, the daily program will include structured learning periods, active play periods, and self-initiated discovery periods. A written program plan is available for review by parents. A well-trained staff will be with your child to help him/her learn and grow. Click on the following links to learn more about the different features of our program.

The Creative Curriculum
Star Wellness
Development Goals
Community Involvement
Summer Program


A Creative Approach

Young children learn from their daily interactions with the environment. A carefully planned, rich environment is the foundation for our child care programs. We use the criteria established by the National Academy of Early Childhood Education to guide us. The Creative Curriculum by Diane Trister Dodge provides the framework for our classrooms - infant through school-age.

The Creative Curriculum focuses on interest areas and fosters creativity in both children and teachers. Being creative means thinking of new ideas, obtaining information by asking questions, and learning through trial and error. Teachers' creativity is supported by a planning process that encourages them to be innovative in the use of materials and equipment and responsive to children. The Creative Curriculum provides information for developing an educational setting in which young children can thrive.



Star Wellness

In June of 2008, Especially for Children launched the Star Wellness program. The program helps children and families learn about nutrition, fitness and healthy habits in a fun and interactive way. The children are led through various activities by their very own Star Guy. Families are encouraged to participate in the Star Wellness program as well. Each month we include a family focus around one food concept and one fitness concept. We have developed weekly "challenges" for families to accomplish at home. We believe that by reinforcing these concepts both at home and at school, children will see the importance of being healthy like The Star Guy! Check out the Star Wellness recipes submitted by EFC families!















Our food program includes breakfast and lunch, which is catered from The Preschool Pantry. Our meals are well-balanced and nutritious. Each week the children eat a variety of fresh fruits, and all the lunches meet USDA standards. The table below shows an example of a weekly menu:

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
Italian Spaghetti, Mixed Vegetables, Pears	Wee Shells & Turkey, Broccoli, Peaches	BBQ Chicken on bun, Tator Tots w/ Ketchup, Fresh Apple (Applesauce)	Turkey Vegetable Soup, Cheese Sandwich, Fresh Orange (Mandarin)	Soft-Shelled Taco, Lettuce and Dressing Carrots Fresh Banana

Development Goals

Teachers develop lessons plans based upon objectives for each age group. Every child is monitored for progress in the following areas:

Physical Development Goals	Cognitive Development Goals
Increase strength and endurance Improve muscular coordination Control bodily functions Provide proper food, cleanliness, and sleep Allow the child to experience relaxation Know safety rules	Solve problems Increase attention span Ask questions Recall information Complete projects Listen and follow directions
Emotional Development Goals	Social Development Goals
Establish a positive self-concept Demonstrate cooperation Increase self-control Channel emotions	Join group activities Take turns, share Play roles of both follower and leader Respect the rights and property of others

Community Involvement


We believe it is important to be involved in the community around us and to teach children about contributing to the community as well. We often participate in book, clothing and food drives as a way to engage with the community. At some of our centers, we also spend time with the elderly at nearby senior care facilities.

We have worked with:

Pajama Day Program
Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery
Home Instead Senior Care
Presbyterian Homes and Services


Minnesota Grown!

This summer it is Minnesota for Mini-sotans. Our summer program will celebrate our great state of Minnesota! Throughout June, July, and August, we will be learning about our state and its history, geography, agriculture, industry, and culture.  From the infants to preschoolers, everyone will be getting involved. You too may learn a fact or two about our great state. In fact, did you know that the Minnesota state muffin is blueberry?  
 
The Creative Curriculum will continue to be our foundation, but you will see "Minnesota" in our interest centers and group time lessons. The teachers are excited to explore our state along with the children!