The staff at Sunflower’s Incredible Years Preschool knows that a break from the daily routine is good for everyone now and then. But they also know they don’t want to miss opportunities for children to learn.
Therefore, the preschool’s Summer Fun Program will serve a dual purpose and enrollment is now open to any child.
"Preschoolers are in the developmental stage where rapid learning occurs," said Cathy Estes, coordinator. "They add to their repertoire every day by increasing their cognitive, motor, self-help and language skills.
"Just as important, they are learning to interact with their peers, and managing their own feelings – both positive and negative," she continued. "When we provide opportunities for play, we are laying a foundation for education that will last a lifetime. Remember, play is the work of a child."
Summer Fun is scheduled for June 13 to July 22 for children ages 3 1/2 to 5. Classes will always meet on Mondays and Wednesdays, but parents may also choose to add Fridays to the regular schedule.
Classes for children 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 will run from June 14 to July 21 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The program will be divided into themes: jungle, ocean and western. "When we use a theme for learning," Estes commented, "everything is related to the food they eat, to the letters they learn, to the art and musical activities they participate in.
"The optional Friday classes for the older children are always different, with more enhanced learning," she added. "They take the theme to the next level with experiments and creative activities."
The preschool always uses the Itty Bitty Bookworm curriculum, which focuses on imaginative play; social/emotional development; language, literature and communication; arts and sciences; and physical development.
Jolene Hindman and Shari Schneider are the program directors. They noted that space is still available in the fall sessions too.
Incredible Years has some scholarship funds available. For more information, call 620-792-4087.