725 E Ave. J, Lancaster, CA 93535, USA,
OPEN M- F 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Our Curriculum

STEAM-Based Learning with Montessori Approach

We use S.T.E.A.M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) based learning with an emphasis on the Montessori approach. We know that children construct their understanding of the world from their active involvement with people, materials, and ideas. Children gain knowledge and develop by exploring the world around them. Allowing them to explore, make choices, manipulate objects, transform items and experiment is what Academy of Excellence Preschool curriculum is all about.

What is S.T.E.A.M Based Learning? S.T.E.A.M is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics. S.T.E.A.M-based learning results in children who take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process. During learning the focus is to incorporate as many of the S.T.E.A.M. principals in each lesson as possible. These are the innovators, educators, leaders, and learners of the 21st century.

What is the Montessori Approach? Montessori is a method of education that is based on self-direction, activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play. In Montessori classrooms, children make creative choices in their learning, while the classroom and the highly trained teacher offer age-appropriate activities to guide the process.

Classroom Routine

Following a consistent daily routine each day helps build the children’s sense of security and independence to make choices and take risks, leading to exciting learning opportunities. Each classroom decides on the daily routine that works best for its settings, schedule, and children enrolled in the classroom. The following are components that are always included in the routine. The length and order of the segments may vary for each classroom.

A Large Group Time

Each day with children and their teachers. This is a time for group sharing, singing, dancing, acting, reading, listening to tapes/record players (story and music), finger plays, group games, etc.

A Small Group Time

With children and teachers. Small Group Time provides children with opportunities to use materials, experiment with these materials, talk about their discoveries, and solve problems that they encounter. Small Group Time builds on the strengths of the children, introduces children to materials and experiences that they might otherwise miss, and provides adults with an intimate setting where they can observe and learn about individual children daily

Language

Language develops through children’s interactions with other people around them. Use descriptive language, colors and textures, finger plays, stimulus pictures or objects to encourage verbalization, reading to the children, etc. Dramatic Play: Dress up, role-playing, puppetry, etc.

Free Play

Children have a choice of – blocks, kitchen toys, and accessories, play sets, toys, and art materials, and may watch limited television, videotapes, or age-appropriate computer programming.

Physical Development

Large motor activities are planned inside/outside every day.

Transition Times

Transitions are the minutes between other blocks of the day, as well as arrival and departure times. Teachers plan meaningful learning experiences for these times, which keeps children engaged

Eating and Resting Times

Meals and snacks allow children to enjoy eating healthy food in a supportive social setting. Rest is for napping or quiet, solitary activities.

The activities scheduled throughout the day balance quiet and active play along with opportunities for self expression in both art and dramatic play.

The schedule may vary depending on the children in care and how the children may be feeling on that particular day. For instance, one child may have had a life changing event and hasn’t been sleeping well. This child may not be available to participate in music and movement but rather prefers to be read a book quietly.

Explore Our Classrooms by Age & Stage

Explore Our Classrooms
by Age & Stage

Infants Program

Cozy Caterpillars
(0 to 24 Months)

The first year of life is a critical time for brain development as well as social and emotional development. Children may be enrolled in our infant classrooms as young as 6 weeks old. Our infant program teachers have specialized training to ensure that they are not only providing excellent child care but are also beginning the learning process that will allow each baby to begin to observe his/her surroundings, to retain information he/she gains from his/her experiences, and to form attachments with others. The teachers plan activities for each individual child based on the continuous assessment process that is in place. They also work in partnership with each infant’s family to set goals for him/her and to continuously evaluate progress toward these goals.

Toddlers

Buzy Beez
( 2 & 3 Years old)

The first few years of your toddler’s life are such important learning years. Connecting with warm, caring adults early on helps your toddler connect with others throughout their life. Our Toddler Program teachers form close personal relationships with children, interact with them in ways that show respect for children and help toddlers learn to manage their own behavior. Toddlers need lots of interesting objects to explore. Teachers choose toys and materials that can be used in different ways, so preschoolers develop creativity and problem-solving skills. Teachers plan a balanced schedule for preschoolers, with time for active play (indoors and outdoors) and rest..

Preschool

Blossoming Butterflies
(4 yrs to 5 yrs):

The first few years of a preschooler’s life are crucial for their overall development. Supporting a preschooler’ development creates a strong foundation for lifelong learning, social interactions, and emotional well-being. Creating a nurturing, engaging, and stimulating environment is key to helping children thrive during these formative years. Here at Academy of Excellence Preschool we offer a well-rounded experience, focusing on all aspects of child development which include morning circle time, and engaging center stations enabling children to learn through exploration and creativity. We provide ample opportunities for unstructured play to foster social skills, creativity, and independence. We promote physical health and exploration of nature to develop gross motor skills.

School Age

Enchanting Eagles -
(6 yrs to 13 yrs old)

School-age childcare programs
support child development in many ways. They can offer a safe and supportive environment. School-age childcare programs support social, emotional and academic development; promote physical health; and often provide nutritious food for students. Children spend most of their time juggling assignments, friendships, and extracurricular activities. They crave the freedom to discover things that interest them the most and Academy of Excellence Preschool gives the children educational opportunities, provide social and emotional learning, create a safe space, and structure to build essential skills for their future.

Start Your Journey With Us

At Academy of Excellence Preschool, we believe every great story begins with a single step. Together, we’ll create something extraordinary. Start your journey with us—where ambition meets opportunity.