About Us
Philosophy
The Children's School of Boise is an independent, non-profit institution. It was founded in 1980 for children 3 to 8 years old as an educational program which emphasizes self-discovery of the world as the most important teacher. Affective (emotional) development is seen as equally important to cognitive (thinking) development. Both function simultaneously to determine what is learned. Since the early 1900's this approach, known as Developmental Interaction, has evolved through research and analysis at Bank Street College of Education in New York City. It is a coherent integration of developmental psychology, cognitive theory and educational theory and practice.
The beginning years of human development, birth to age eight, are the critical years of learning. That core sense of self - one's value and capability - is laid down early. Whether the world is seen as an intriguing and safe place is established. A good, healthy start can prevent later problems and help assure sound and effective lifetime learning.
Mission
The mission of The Children's School of Boise, Inc., is to enhance human development by supporting children, during their childhood years, as they experience themselves as capable learners. The school will provide a developmentally and educationally sound program for children through age 8. In its actions, the school will serve as a community advocate for the whole and healthy development of children and families, and as a progressive educational model.
Values for Children
We work to help children keep their spontaneity, curiosity and joy of learning. Four areas of growth are emphasized:
- Competence
- Individuality
- Social/Interpersonal Relationships
- Creativity/Integration
We help children:
- feel excited about learning and doing
- make choices, take initiative and become increasingly self-directed and self-responsible
- know limits in a firm but supportive and non-punitive environment
- feel sensitive to others and enjoy working together in a spirit of cooperation rather than competition
- enjoy the natural, outdoor world and learn to value living things
- develop thinking skills: reasoning, inquiring, perceiving relationships, hypothesizing, generalizing, acquiring and ordering information
- experience art, science, math, music, movement, language and social skills
- develop meaningful writing and reading experience and skills
Accreditation
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation was earned in 1989, making The Children's School the first in Boise to achieve this recognition. An accredited program has undergone comprehensive scrutiny by each staff and parent. Standards are set and verified by external professional review to certify compliance with NAEYC's criteria for high quality programs. Accreditation must be renewed every five years.