Reading & Language Development

Language and literacy are woven naturally into each day at Woodland Forest Center. From preschool through elementary years, we focus on building a strong foundation and love for language through meaningful use, conversation, and connection.

Children experience literacy through:

• Daily read-alouds that expose them to rich language, storytelling, and new vocabulary

• Intentional conversations that encourage children to express ideas, ask questions, and explain their thinking

• Story dictation and shared writing for younger children, showing that their words and ideas matter

• Modeling writing during real experiences, such as recording observations or labeling discoveries

• Drawing, labeling, and early journaling as children transition into more independent writing

• Nature journaling and written reflections for older students, combining observation, illustration, and written thought

As children grow, literacy shifts from listening and speaking, to drawing and labeling, to structured journaling and written reflection—always grounded in real experiences rather than worksheets.

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Math

Math at Woodland Forest Center is experienced through real-world exploration and problem-solving. Children develop mathematical thinking naturally as they interact with their environment and materials.

Math learning includes:

• Counting and estimating with natural materials such as rocks, sticks, and pinecones

• Sorting, classifying, and organizing objects by size, shape, color, or function

• Creating and extending patterns found in nature

• Measuring using both non-standard tools (hands, boots, sticks) and age-appropriate standard tools

• Comparing quantities while building, sharing, and collaborating

• Using math language during games and daily routines

These experiences help children develop strong number sense and problem-solving skills while remaining active, curious, and engaged.

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Science & Discovery

At Woodland Forest Center, we view every child as a natural scientist. Curiosity drives learning, and the natural world serves as our primary classroom.

Science learning happens through:

• Child-led investigations sparked by questions and observations

• Hands-on experiments that encourage predicting, testing, observing, and discussing results

• Close observation using tools like magnifying glasses and field guides

• Studying plants, animals, insects, and seasonal changes in their natural habitats

• Nature walks that connect books, discussion, and real-world discovery

• Planting, caring for, and observing growth over time

• Nature journaling and recording findings for older students

• Open-ended questions that promote deeper thinking and reflection

As children grow, science learning expands from exploration and discovery to documentation, analysis, and thoughtful discussion.

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Social & Emotional Development

We teach to the whole child. Social and emotional growth is foundational to everything we do and is intentionally supported across all age groups.

Children develop social-emotional skills through:

• Cooperative play and shared experiences that foster empathy and teamwork

• Guided support in naming emotions and navigating feelings

• Building independence through daily routines and responsibilities

• Practicing communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution

• Making choices and learning from natural consequences

• Developing focus, patience, and self-regulation

• Reflecting on experiences through discussion and journaling as children mature

Our goal is to support children in becoming confident, capable learners who are prepared not only academically, but socially and emotionally as well.

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Art & Play

Art and play remain essential at every stage of learning at Woodland Forest Center. These experiences allow children to express ideas, process learning, and build creativity, resilience, and problem-solving skills.

Children engage in:

• Open-ended art using natural and traditional materials

• Creative expression through hands-on making and experimentation

• Dramatic and imaginative play that builds empathy and collaboration

• Storytelling through art, play, and discussion

• Nature-based creations that evolve with children’s skills and ideas

For younger children, play is the primary mode of learning. For older students, creative expression continues through sketching, journaling, design challenges, and reflective projects.

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A Note to Families

Learning at Woodland Forest Center is intentionally designed to grow with your child. From playful exploration to thoughtful observation and reflection, our approach honors development, curiosity, and connection—allowing children to learn deeply, joyfully, and at their own pace.