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:

• 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

CURRICULUM:  Our teachers arrange the environment and implement activities which center around a child-directed, hands on approach to learning with free exploration and open discussion. We implement the "theme" approach in our teaching, in which teachers select a specific topic of study and integrate it into the various areas of the classroom. The curriculums are designed to meet the individual needs of each child's development and are based on teacher observations of the class. Each week teachers determine if changes to the environment are needed based on their observations of the children's play. Throughout the day, children are given the choice to participate in art, science, blocks, dramatic play, computer, literature, music, sensory, and large and small motor activities. Children also play outdoors twice daily in our large playground. Play activities on our playground include a natural, cedar playscape, climber, balance beam, sand and gravel areas with various digging implements, ride toys, balls, dramatic play accessories, sensory activities, and books. We also offer special spring and summer activities: gardening and splash days. Field Trips are also scheduled for the older class throughout the year in accordance with the teachers' curriculum plans. Destinations may include museums, gardens, UT campus, and more!

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.

DIRECTIONS:
Growing Tree Learning Center is located in central Austin at:
2807 Robinson Avenue
Phone: (512) 472-4899
    Fax: (512) 220-8789
Email: info@growingtreeaustin.com

Directions to Growing Tree:
From North Austin:
Take IH 35 South
Exit 32nd Street
At the light, U turn over highway
Take a right on 32nd Street
A right on Dancy
Another right on 29th Street
We are on the left side at 29th and Robinson

From South Austin:
Take IH 35 North
Exit Dean Keeton
Take a right on 30th Street
Another right on Robinson
We are on the left side at 29th and Robinson

From UT Campus:
Take Dean Keeton East under IH 35
Take a left at Dancy (at the bus stops)
Another left on 29th Street

MAPQUEST:
Click here to locate us via MAPQUEST