We are well into our new school year at our specialized preschool in Auburn. This fall, we welcomed 12 new students to our Early Learning Center, bringing the number of students to nearly 40. These preschoolers have significant needs, and providing early intervention and educational programming to prepare them to enter Kindergarten requires more resources and innovation than ever.
As new friendships form in the classroom, it gives students the chance to experience sharing, taking turns and problem solving together. Cooperative play allows children to work together towards a common goal instead of in opposition to one another or in pursuit of winning. Creative learning projects foster a child’s natural imagination and helps them develop essential life skills that will stay with them for years to come.
Friendships between children promote social and emotional development by creating opportunities for sharing, taking turns, problem solving and resolving conflicts. When children establish strong friendships, they have higher self-esteem and are better able to focus on doing well in school.
In the end, children will grow socially as they grow physically, emotionally, and cognitively through their school years. With the loving support of families, our preschoolers will enjoy the journey toward developing meaningful friendships throughout their entire lives.
Pine Tree Society’s Early Learning Center in Auburn provides early intervention and educational programming 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. For more information contact Director, Karen McClure-Richard, at 207-386-5943 or kmcclure@pinetreesociety.org.
