Introduction
For many parents finding a school that is right for their child can be very challenging. You want to find a school and staff that will help your child grow and be happy. Established in 1972, The Learning Tree is licensed by the Department of Health of the City of New York. The classrooms are run by licensed teachers with the help from assistants.
Philosophy
Children who attend The Learning Tree learn in a warm and supportive environment that helps them to develop socially, intellectually, physically and emotionally. Our curriculum focuses on social and emotional development with age appropriate academic challenges.
Goals
· To develop self-confidence and good socialization skills through positive reinforcement.
· To encourage pro-social behavior, such as sharing and cooperating.
· To develop good listening skills, play skills and work habits.
· To develop a sense of independence and responsibility.
· To enjoy coming to school.
Separation Policy
We continually strive to make your child's separation experience as pleasant as possible and realize both parent and child often have difficulty separating from each other. We advise parents to discuss school with their children prior to their first day and encourage a speedy separation upon entering school.
The Positive Reinforcement Approach/Discipline Policy
· At The Learning Tree we use the positive reinforcement approach to promote pro-social behavior.
· Effective discipline offers an acceptable alternative to unacceptable behavior. This approach helps children understand what is expected and why. Effective discipline helps children understand the effects of their behavior on others.
· Positive reinforcement emphasizes encouraging and praising children for appropriate behavior in order for this behavior to occur more frequently. Positive reinforcement builds self confidence and self esteem.
· Ignoring unacceptable behavior should lead to a decline in such behavior. When inappropriate behavior cannot be ignored (ie., when is it dangerous), or ignoring it does not eliminate such behavior, the child will be asked to sit in a "time-out" for a few minutes. "Time-out" occurs in a part of the class which does not provide reinforcement for the child. During this brief time (approximately 2-3 minutes), the teacher tries to discover why the behavior occurred. We expect children to feel anger, frustration and fear. The teacher will help the child pick more appropriate behaviors to express themselves.
· If a discipline problem occurs with your child, you will be notified when you pick up your child at the end of the day. If this is a serious problem (ie., biting), you will be contacted by telephone immediately. The staff will work closely with you and your child in an attempt to correct such inappropriate behavior.
At The Learning Tree, we want your child to become a happy, well adjusted student. To achieve this we want you to work with us. If you would like to learn more about The Learning Tree or have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to provide any help we can.
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