Our Curriculum

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At Hugging Tree, we use emergent curriculum in our planning. Emergent curriculum is a way of planning learning experiences that grows out of children’s natural interests, questions, and everyday experiences. Instead of following a rigid, pre-set plan, we observe the children closely, listen to their ideas, and design activities that build on what they are curious about. 

Emergent curriculum values play, exploration, and collaboration, while also weaving in developmental goals such as language, social, emotional, and problem-solving skills. The teacher acts as a guide to create a supportive environment, offer materials, and extend learning opportunities that respond to the children's interests. 

Through this approach, the children guide their own learning and the teacher gains greater understanding of each child's individual needs. There is a balance of unstructured learning and intentional teaching.

To assure all developmental domains are addressed, Hugging Tree utilizes the Iowa Early Learning Standards as a guide.