Early Learning Center
Preschoolers thrive when learning starts early.
Our Early Learning Center in Auburn is a special purpose preschool for children ages three to six. While each child comes to us with unique strengths and challenges, we see a common goal for all of our students: To foster a love of learning that will set a strong foundation for the future.
Our philosophy is that children learn best through play.
Teacher directed activities are balanced with opportunities for students to play and explore. This varied routine allows kids to develop new skills and gives our educators the chance to plan for and meet individual learning goals. It also gives kids the chance to experience sharing, taking turns and problem solving; which are all key skills they’ll need when they transition to kindergarten.
Our high staff-to-child ratio and collaborative approach supports children’s growth.
We work hand-in-hand with parents, therapists, and other agencies involved with providing the child and family with a coordinated and meaningful program. Therapists are encouraged to integrate the child’s services into the classroom whenever possible.
The Early Learning Center is a program of Pine Tree Society.
This allows us to provide a broad range of services for families both on- and off-site. Not only can this be convenient for parents, but it also allows for integrated classroom programming that helps children reach their goals through a multidisciplinary approach.
Pine Tree Society’s services include:
How can my child become eligible to attend the Early Learning Center?
To become eligible to attend the Early Learning Center, a child must go through the preschool special education process and be identified as a child needing Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) in order to make meaningful progress under the criteria of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Is there a waitlist?
Although we often maintain a waitlist for various openings (depending on service needs identified in the child’s IEP), openings do become available throughout the school year. We continue to accept referrals and organize our waitlist in the order referrals are received.
Which ages do you serve?
Our preschoolers are ages three to six
How many classrooms do you have?
We have three classrooms designed to help preschoolers grow. Our two small classrooms provide a supportive environment for kids with limited group experience so they can learn what school is like. As they’re ready, students move to our larger classroom where they have the opportunity to participate with a broader group of peers and grow their skills in a more typical setting.
What is the staff-to-child ratio?
Our ratio is one adult for every three children.
What is a typical day like?
A typical day consists of two separate sessions across three classrooms. Our sessions run Monday through Friday and students can attend three, four or five days a week.
Morning Session:
8:00 – 11:00am
Afternoon Session:
Noon – 3:00pm
Do you have a playground?
We love to play outside! Our playground is a natural extension of the classroom and we love spending time outside. Playing outdoors not only promotes physical health, but provides new context for learning. Nature is a natural teacher…and research shows that being outside is important for social, emotional and physical development and can lead to better learning outcomes.
How do you help transition my child to kindergarten?
All of the children who come to the Early Learning Center have an individual educational program in place that supports their educational needs. We work with schools to be sure there’s a plan in place so the transition is as smooth as possible. We provide ongoing individualized family support and resources to help ensure greater success when the child transitions to kindergarten.
