Early childhood philosophy and goals

HISTORY OF EACN

East Aurora Community Nursery, founded in 1948, was the first nursery school in East Aurora. It provided a two-and one-half hour program five mornings per week. As the community changed, a full day program for two, three, and four year olds became necessary. In 1978, the school expanded into a childcare center licensed by New York State. In response to the community's continuing demands for more services, EACN sought a new home. Currently housed on the campus of Fisher Price, we offer childcare to the community and to Fisher Price employees for children 8 weeks to 5 years. For over 50 years, this not-for-profit organization has provided high quality early care and education programs.

PROGRAMS AND PHILOSOPHY

Philosophy

East Aurora Community Nursery fosters the development of children and their families by providing a program with a focus on nurturing the whole child in an environment which meets their physical, intellectual, social and emotional needs.

Our daily goal is to have children feel good about themselves and their time spent with us, giving them a solid sense of self-worth and confidence. In addition, our program ensures a caring response to unique family situations.

Programs

Daily programs blend teacher-directed and child-initiated activities based on play and experience learning and are supported by developmentally appropriate practices. At EACN the question is not, Is your child ready for the center?, but rather, Is the center ready for your child? The teachers in our program understand the concept of individual learning styles and prepare for a variety of child and developmental levels. The curriculum is theme based and provides meaningful experiences at all age levels. Child assessments, including portfolios, are maintained with parent/teacher conferences twice a year.

In addition to our creative curriculum, we offer an additional music and movement program on Thursdays, called Music with Melissa. The company "Music with Mar", with which Melissa is associated, is dedicated to bringing quality brain-research-based music to children, families and teachers. Its philosophy is to use music to teach children the skills they need for a successful, happy life.

Lastly, EACN participates in the Eat well, play Hard program, a New York State Department of Health initiative to combat childhood obesity. On our menu, you will see fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, limited fat and no trans fat. In addition, our nurse implements health spots each year in order to promote healthy living. Our staff incorporates exercise and healthy eating into their every day curriculum as well.

EACN is monitored by Fisher Price security with an Emergency Medical Technician on campus. EACN also employs a full-time Nurse who is on-site each day. We have a keen understanding of dietary restrictions and life threatening allergies, and the Center is peanut and tree-nut free. In addition, our entire staff is certified in CPR and First Aid. Safety is our number one priority.