In selecting the curriculum for our new educational center Cedar Ridge used as its selection criteria, models that are grounded in the latest research and understanding of early childhood education.  Our goal is to create a learning environment that nurtures and educates children cognitively, physically, socially and emotionally.

Starting at the earliest stages of development, our programs include rich learning centers designed to invite children to participate in self-directed investigations that build problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Research shows that children learn best when they are actively involved in constructing knowledge through self-directed learning activities.  Deep and true understanding comes when young children are supported, in playful exploration, by caring and encouraging adults, in rich and stimulating environments.

Cedar Ridge teachers supplement these experiences with large group activities that focus on character education, physical fitness, science and a variety of curricula themes. Because we know that our society places a strong emphasis on mathematics and literacy skills, our programs will give children particularly strong foundations in these disciplines.

Research also shows that special capabilities and perception in youngster’s writing and reading skills develop at an earlier age than widely believed and that computers enhance that early learning process.  To that end, Cedar Ridge includes computers as an integral part of the learning environment in its preschool and pre-kindergarten classrooms.

While there will be many structured experiences incorporated into the learning environment, it is important to know how children learn through play.  For example, when a child is playing with blocks, he is learning about cause and effect, different shapes, problem solving and how to make a building stable and tall.  When using paint, a child learns how different colors change when they mix together; fine motor skills, essential to handwriting are developed; and while making a collage, they learn to follow more than one step and how to respect differences in people’s creations.

In sum, through varied educational methods and the use of Pinnacle Learning Curriculum, Cedar Ridge Child Development will create a warm, nurturing and challenging environment whereby children can thrive, grow and develop a life-long love of learning.