About Us
Growing Tree Learning Center opened its doors in July 2001. We started with two classrooms for children 18 mos-5 years and in August of 2005 opened our infant classroom. We added a toddler classroom in 2006 and now have 50 children attending each day. The Owner and Co-Director, Amber Dawkins, has a degree in Child Development and Family Relationships from the University of Texas at Austin. She first started working with children in 1997 as a preschool teacher and continued her experience with children and families through being a nanny, mother, and the director of Growing Tree. Co-Director Katie Ehrhardt has been working as a preschool teacher since 2001 and has been teaching at Growing Tree since 2002.
Philosophy
At Growing Tree Learning Center, we know that education for children is most productive and meaningful if it is child-directed. To ensure this, our teachers observe and respond to the children in their classroom when planning their curriculum. They take into consideration each individual child's developmental level and interests, general knowledge of child development, and the culture surrounding the children in the class. After reflecting on these factors, the teachers plan play-based, child initiated activities that help foster knowledge of the classroom theme. The activities of our classrooms are play-based because children learn best through doing. To accomplish this, all of the children's senses are involved, if possible, and the children are free to enter and leave an activity at their choice. This method of teaching allows the children to incorporate the information in a relevant and meaningful way, which enables them to learn more completely, and they enjoy their educational experience. Having children sit at desks and complete worksheets teaches children to memorize facts and often diminishes the natural love of learning.
At Growing Tree Learning Center, our goal is to foster social, cognitive, physical, and emotional growth by providing an environment which facilitates the development of:
At Growing Tree Learning Center, our goal is to foster social, cognitive, physical, and emotional growth by providing an environment which facilitates the development of:
- Self confidence, initiative, and a positive self-image
- A feeling of belonging, love, and respect
- Consideration for others
- Enthusiasm for learning
- Ability to solve problems
Discipline
Our center adopts the positive guidance method of discipline. It incorporates creative teaching and involvement to help children develop self-discipline and inner control over their actions. It is based on mutual respect and an understanding of children's needs and developmental levels. Positive guidance utilizes redirection, consistency, acceptance of feelings, firmness, and fairness. Children are encouraged to express their feelings verbally as well as discuss and resolve conflicts, rather than "act out" their feelings. Positive guidance also includes the language teachers use to communicate with children. Instead of telling a child "no" and "don't," teachers tell the child what the expectations are and acceptable ways to fulfill his desires and needs. By practicing the method of positive guidance, a child learns the vital skills of self-regulation and respect in a positive, caring environment.
