Daily Rhythm

“Childhood is a most precious time and yet, in today’s world, little recognition — let alone respect and honor — is given to this short but critical time of human development. In a culture of “More, Better, Sooner, Faster” no one is exempt from the pressures of keeping pace – particularly our youngest. It was during my first two years at home that I realized on a very personal level the importance of the first few years of childhood. As I educated myself on the infant and toddler, I despaired for the children who went into care settings that over-stimulated and undernourished. Most early education programs have been forced to accelerate the teaching of cognitive skills – which research is showing is inappropriate for these young children — while focusing less and less on their physical, emotional, and social needs. It was during this time that I began developing a vision for an alternative child-care program that would serve a growing community of families who felt that the pressure to “grow up” prematurely was detrimental to the health and well being of their children.  Guided by Steiner/Waldorf insights on child development, it was clear that a practice based upon the fundamental need for relationship-based care (bonding and continuity), neurological research, and recognition of living arts (domestic, nurturing, creative and social arts) was central to the program.” – Jane McCoy – Director of Hummingbird Hill Playgarden

Young children learn best through imitation, imagination, movement, and play.  Our program and daily activities are designed to provide healthy and creative opportunities to play, learn and grow.  We believe it is important to offer plenty of opportunities for both indoor and outdoor play as well as self-guided and adult-guided work. We call the work initiated and organized by the child as a “breathing out” time, while the more focused, adult-led activities are considered “breathing in” times. Please note how our day together is organized to allow for such “rhythmical breathing” to occur.