Program Goals
The Promise of Childhood: Our Vision
Childhood is a time of wondrous possibilities: a time of exploration, experimentation, and self-expression.
Foundations of success are being established. We believe in a happy balance between innocence and experience. We recognize and respect each child’s need to enjoy the wonder of the early years and at the same time to begin preparations for life.
At the Morro Bay United Methodist Children’s Center, we feel privileged to serve the unfolding promise of each child and strive to provide for each child:
- The freedom to choose materials and activities to work with that are appropriate for the individual developmental levels.
- A learning environment which reflects diversity of our community and fosters appreciation of the differences and similarities among all people.
- An atmosphere that promotes personal responsibility, freedom of choice, problem-solving skills, self-esteem, independence, love, and respect.
- A “Prepared Environment” possesses an inherent order and allows children to learn at their own speed in a non-competitive atmosphere.
- Experiences to learn by doing in a safe, trusting, nurturing, and creative environment for both children and their families.
Guidance and Discipline
A key component in the operation of the Morro Bay United Methodist Children’s Center is cooperation and communication between parents and staff. This is particularly true in the area of discipline, Communication, positive guidance and redirection are the discipline techniques we utilize.
Guidance is a positive term involved in working with a child to develop internal control over his/her behavior. The MBUMCC believes every child is an individual with a unique set of values, background and experiences. It is our goal to model tolerance and problem solving by demonstrating and encouraging positive communication skills that make for harmony and understanding.
We endeavor to teach inner control through limiting and discouraging unacceptable behaviors, and offering acceptable solutions. This involves learning to problem solve and make responsible choices.
The teacher’s redirection is respectful, sensitive, gentle, and loving yet firm. Any ongoing situation(s) will be discussed with the parents to ensure a cooperative approach.
Forms of Guidance Used
- Redirection: to assist the child with alternative acceptable choices rather than using “no” or “don’t”.
- Positive Behaviors: to acknowledge positive behaviors. (Pro-Active / Re-Active)
- Classroom Rules: logical and basic rules for consideration, respect, and safety.
- Environment: a “thinking place and time” for the child.
We believe all children deserve the right to be treated with respect. It is our practice to reinforce and nurture positive behavior with positive reinforcement, redirection, and if necessary, a thinking time out. If at any time you have concerns, please feel free to discuss them with your child’s teacher and/or the Director.
Affiliation:
Estero Bay United Methodist Church
3000 Hemlock
Morro Bay, CA 93442
805-471-3216
Contact us
Program Hours
Pre-School: 7:30am-5:00pm
School Age: 7:30am-5:00pm