• We use a project based approach to teach key objectives by organizing a variety of hands-on experiences that are of high interest to the children.
• Key objectives are taught in the following areas of development according to each age group: social emotional, cognitive (which includes math, science, and social studies), physical (which includes gross and fine motor development), language/ literacy, creative expression, safety/nutrition and self-help/health.
• General child development information (e.g., what to expect of children at different ages) is also used to select activities which are age-appealing, challenging and based on appropriate behavioral expectations. 
• Consideration of children's individual characteristics is also used to plan ways to make adaptations or modifications to the activities as needed.
• We conduct parent-teacher conferences twice a year to assess development, which is also a licensing requirement.
• Teachers collect observational records and individual work samples on each child.  This information is organized into individual portfolios and shared during conferences.
• Fieldtrips are an integral part of the WCCC curriculum. Fieldtrips happen at least once a month in the older Preschool room. These trips are designed to deliver a hands-on, in depth educational experience. 
• We offer a comprehensive 9-12 week summer camp for our graduating preschoolers in the summers before they attend kindergarten.  This program uses an intense project work philosophy.  The children have daily fieldtrips in and around the Charlottesville area, exploring different themes and having outdoor adventures.
•  During the school year, our main curriculum time is from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
• Staff is trained on an on-going basis in the project work philosophy and in child development.
• Literature is available regarding our philosophy by request from the Assistant Director.

Project Work in Progress