Philosophy ...
The program at Emmanuel Kindergarten is based on the following principles:

• Early Education in the years prior to school entry provides a bridge between home learning and curriculum based school learning and is an integral part of the education system in Victoria.
• Children learn at different rates and in different but interwoven ways through – social, emotional, physical, intellectual, spiritual, language growth and development – depending on genetic inheritance, maturation, culture and environment. Thus they will also learn at different rates and in different ways.
• Play is children’s natural way of expressing sharing, extending and modifying accumulated knowledge skills and attitudes. Play and conversation are the most effective ways for children to learn.
• Learning can be a social or individual activity and is enhanced when children can share their ideas, as equals, with each other and with adults (teaching, mentoring, guidance and collaboration).
• Young children learn from everything that happens to them and around them.
• Relationships are a crucial factor in young children’s learning.
• Children’s strengths and in terests are the starting point for learning.
• The early childhood period is the foundation on which the rest of life is built. It is not only preparation for what comes later but a significant time in itself. It therefore requires our best teachers and caregivers, with the highest possible standard of training, the most highly skilled researchers, the most favourable environments, the benefits of community support and the greatest public recognition.

Teachers’ Goals …

• For every child to happily participate in a range of learning experiences
• For every child to participate in the kindergarten program at their own level of ability and to be extended in creativity and skills
• For every child to gain independence and understanding in a variety of situations
• For every child to develop the necessary skills and attitudes for successful entry into school
• For every parent to participate in kindergarten activities and rosters
• For every parent to have access to staff and parent library books for information and support
• For every family to participate in the kindergarten program at the level they feel most comfortable

Curriculum …
The program is carefully and thoughtfully planned around each child’s needs and developmental growth. It also includes the emerging themes, topics and interests within the group. Don’t expect your child to produce something every day. Your child will enjoy and learn from the process. The final product is not the most important element.