The Science of Play: Why It’s Essential in Our Classrooms

At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we understand that academic learning is only one part of early childhood development. Equally important — if not more so — is the development of emotional intelligence . Emotional intelligence, or EQ, refers to a child’s ability to recognize, express, and regulate their emotions and empathize with others. Cultivating this skill set in early childhood sets the stage for lifelong mental health, social success, and resilience. What is Emotional Intelligence? Emotional intelligence includes five core components: Self-awareness : Understanding one’s own emotions. Self-regulation : Managing emotions in healthy ways. Motivation : Channeling emotions toward positive goals. Empathy : Recognizing emotions in others. Social skills : Interacting in ways that respect both oneself and others. These are not innate traits. Like literacy and math, emotional intelligence can and should be taught — through modeling, practice, and guided reflection. How We Teach Emotional Intelligence Our educators are trained in intentional emotional guidance. We help children build emotional vocabulary, understand how feelings affect behavior, and learn techniques to manage those feelings constructively. Some of our methods include: Emotion Cards : Visual aids help children identify and name feelings such as happy, sad, angry, or frustrated. Feelings Check-Ins : We ask children how they’re feeling during circle time and throughout the day. Calm Down Corners : A designated space with sensory tools, soft materials, and calming prompts where children can regroup. Storytelling & Books : We use age-appropriate stories that illustrate emotional situations, helping children build empathy and discuss feelings openly. Helping Children Manage Big Feelings Tantrums, outbursts, and tears are all natural in early childhood. Our role is not to suppress them but to support children in moving through them. We remain calm, validate their emotions, and offer strategies like deep breathing, counting, or seeking adult help. We teach children that all emotions are acceptable, but not all behaviors are. For example, “It’s okay to be mad. It’s not okay to hit.” From this framework, children learn that feelings are temporary, manageable, and nothing to be ashamed of. Modeling Matters Children learn far more from what they see than what they are told. Our educators model emotional regulation in daily interactions, calmly navigating frustrations or conflicts and talking through their own feelings when appropriate. This consistent modeling teaches children how to respond to life’s challenges with self-awareness and control. The Role of Play in Emotional Learning Much of emotional development happens through play: Role play helps children act out and process emotional scenarios. Cooperative games teach teamwork and negotiation. Artistic expression offers a safe outlet for internal experiences. Whether painting, pretending, or problem-solving together, children are building the social-emotional muscles they’ll carry with them for life.  Family Partnership We regularly share strategies and insights with parents to ensure emotional learning continues at home. We encourage families to use similar language, validate feelings, and implement calm-down strategies as a team. Together, we create a consistent, emotionally intelligent environment that nurtures confidence and well-being.

The start of nursery school is an exciting milestone for both children and families — but it can also bring nervousness, uncertainty, and many questions. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we approach each new enrolment with great care, ensuring a smooth, supportive transition for every child who joins our community. The Importance of a Gentle Start Young children thrive on familiarity and routine. For many, starting nursery is their first extended experience away from home. It’s a big adjustment, and we believe in easing into it slowly and compassionately. We offer: Staggered Start Times : Shorter days at the beginning help children build comfort without overwhelm. Settling-In Sessions : Families are welcome to stay and explore the space with their child before drop-off becomes regular. Consistent Staffing : We ensure each child has a familiar, consistent adult they can bond with. This gentle approach helps reduce separation anxiety and allows trust to develop at a natural pace. Partnering With Families From Day One We view parents and carers as essential partners in a child’s learning journey. From the first tour to the first day, we work closely with families to understand each child’s personality, preferences, and routines. We gather insight about: Sleep schedules and eating habits Comfort items and favorite activities Family culture, language, and traditions Any fears, health needs, or sensory sensitivities This information helps us tailor our care to meet each child’s unique needs, creating a truly individualized experience. Creating a Home-Like Environment We design our nursery spaces to feel warm, safe, and welcoming. Soft lighting, cozy nooks, family photos, and gentle music help children feel more at ease. We keep class sizes small and ratios low so that every child gets the attention and connection they deserve. Our educators greet each child by name, listen attentively, and help them navigate each part of the day with empathy and encouragement. Helping Children Build Relationships Making friends and connecting with educators are key parts of the nursery experience. We use: Small-group activities Turn-taking games Parallel play setups Gentle introductions to group routines Over time, children build confidence, communication skills, and emotional resilience. Many parents are surprised by how quickly their child begins to thrive, once the initial adjustment phase has passed. Open Communication With Families We know that parents want to feel informed and reassured. That’s why we offer: Daily reports or updates Photos and notes about your child’s day Open-door policies for questions and feedback Regular family meetings and parent-teacher conversations This two-way communication ensures you stay connected, even when you’re not in the room. Every Transition is Unique We understand that not every child adjusts at the same pace. Some may dive right in; others may take more time. There is no right or wrong — only the importance of meeting each child where they are. Our team is patient, consistent, and responsive. We’re here to support not only your child, but you as a family, every step of the way.

Welbourne Avenue Nursery is a vibrant community filled with children and families from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. For many of our students, English is not their first language — and we see this not as a challenge, but as a strength. Multilingual children bring rich experiences and perspectives, and we are committed to supporting their growth in both their home language and English with thoughtful, respectful strategies. Why Language Diversity Matters Children who grow up in multilingual households develop unique cognitive advantages. Research shows that dual language learners often demonstrate: Stronger executive functioning Enhanced problem-solving abilities Greater mental flexibility Increased cultural sensitivity Far from being a hindrance, learning more than one language early in life creates a solid foundation for future academic success. That’s why we intentionally support and celebrate every child’s linguistic identity. Building a Culturally Responsive Environment From the moment a family walks through our doors, we seek to honor their culture and language. Our classrooms feature: Books in multiple languages Labels and signs in English and children’s home languages Multicultural music and storytelling Visual cues and routines to support understanding We welcome families to share songs, stories, and traditions, creating an inclusive environment where every child feels seen and valued. Language Development Through Connection For dual language learners, strong relationships are key. Our educators build warm, trusting connections that help children feel safe enough to take language risks. We use gestures, facial expressions, and repetition to ensure understanding while modeling rich, descriptive English. We also honor the child’s home language. If a child begins school speaking mostly another language, we don’t rush them to switch — we allow their understanding of English to grow naturally, knowing that a strong first language supports stronger second language acquisition. Strategies We Use to Support Dual Language Learners Visual Aids : Picture schedules, labeled materials, and illustrated stories help children connect words with meaning. Repetition and Routine : Repeated exposure to words in context helps children absorb language without pressure. Peer Support : Children often learn from one another, and we create mixed-language playgroups to encourage natural conversation and modeling. Language-Rich Play : We engage children in storytelling, singing, and role-playing — all of which support vocabulary and comprehension. Family Communication : We use translation tools, bilingual staff, and home-language newsletters to stay in close communication with families. The Silent Period is Normal Some children go through a “silent period” when they begin learning a new language — a time when they listen and observe more than they speak. We recognize this as a natural and healthy stage in language development and never force children to speak before they are ready. Instead, we encourage participation in non-verbal ways, offer praise for effort, and create a low-stress environment that allows confidence to grow.  Our Commitment to Inclusion Language is central to identity, and we want every child to feel proud of their voice. We never treat English as superior to any other language — instead, we foster a community where all languages are assets and all children are capable, curious learners.

Discipline in early childhood should never be about punishment. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we embrace a positive, respectful approach to behavior guidance that helps children understand their emotions, build empathy, and make good choices — not out of fear, but from a place of self-awareness and care for others. Understanding Behavior as Communication Young children are still learning how to express themselves. What may look like “bad behavior” is often a child’s attempt to meet a need, seek connection, or cope with a feeling they don’t yet know how to manage. We train our educators to look beyond the behavior and ask: What is the child trying to communicate? This mindset allows us to respond with compassion and support rather than punishment or shame. Key Strategies We Use Clear, Consistent Expectations Children feel safe when they know what to expect. We use simple language, visual cues, and consistent routines to help children understand boundaries. Modeling Respectful Communication Children learn how to treat others by watching the adults around them. We model calm, respectful interactions even in moments of conflict, showing children that strong feelings can be managed without hurtful words or actions. Naming Emotions We help children build emotional literacy by naming their feelings: “You seem frustrated because the toy isn’t working the way you want it to.” Naming emotions helps children recognize and manage them more effectively. Teaching Problem-Solving Skills When conflicts arise — as they naturally do in early childhood — we guide children through the process of solving them together. We ask questions like, “What happened? What do you need? What can we do to make it better?” Redirection Instead of simply saying “no,” we offer positive alternatives. If a child is throwing blocks, we might say, “Blocks are for building. If you want to throw something, let’s try these soft balls outside.” Reflection and Repair When a child makes a mistake, we treat it as a learning opportunity. We talk through what happened and explore how to make amends — whether by saying sorry, helping a friend, or trying again with support. Partnering with Families We know that every child is unique, and every family brings their own values and experiences. We communicate regularly with parents about behavioral goals and strategies, ensuring consistency between home and school. We also offer resources, workshops, and one-on-one support for families seeking guidance on behavior and discipline.

In a world filled with text, early literacy is a gift we begin nurturing long before formal reading begins. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we cultivate a love of language and storytelling from the very start, building a literacy-rich environment where books, conversations, and creativity are everywhere. Reading Aloud with Purpose Reading aloud is one of the most powerful tools we use to develop language and literacy skills. Our educators select books that are age-appropriate, diverse, and engaging. They read with expression, ask open-ended questions, and encourage children to predict, imagine, and connect. Daily story-time is a treasured part of our routine. It sparks curiosity, builds comprehension, and deepens the bond between child and educator. Children don’t just listen — they interact, comment, and participate. Print-Rich Classrooms Every corner of our classrooms is filled with print — not just books, but labels, signs, word walls, and child-created writing. Children are constantly exposed to letters, numbers, and meaningful print that helps them connect spoken and written language. Our learning centers often include: Letter tiles for name recognition Magnetic boards for letter exploration Books in cozy nooks and theme corners Journals and writing materials for drawing and scribbling This kind of exposure helps children internalize early concepts of print, such as reading left to right, understanding that print carries meaning, and recognizing familiar words. Conversations as Literacy Talking with children is just as important as reading to them. At Welbourne, we engage children in rich, responsive conversations throughout the day. We listen closely, expand on their ideas, and introduce new vocabulary in meaningful contexts. Whether during play, meals, or group time, we model expressive language, encourage storytelling, and invite children to share their thoughts. These conversations strengthen language development and help children develop confidence in their voice. Encouraging Pre-Writing Skills Before children can write, they need to develop fine motor control, hand strength, and an understanding of symbols. We support this through playful, hands-on activities that build foundational writing skills: Scribbling with crayons and markers Tracing letters in sand or finger paint Using tweezers, play dough, and lacing cards Drawing shapes and lines during art These activities build muscle memory and hand-eye coordination while helping children develop comfort with writing tools. Storytelling and Imagination We encourage children to tell their own stories through dramatic play, drawing, and oral language. These creative expressions help children understand narrative structure, sequencing, and descriptive language. Teachers act as scribes for young children, writing down their dictated stories or ideas. This validates their voice and shows them that their words matter.  Family Engagement in Literacy Parents and careers are key partners in developing early literacy. We share book lists, recommend storytelling activities, and encourage families to read together at home. We host literacy nights, book swaps, and storytelling events that bring our community together through the joy of reading.

At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we believe learning should never be confined to a desk or limited to quiet time. Young children learn best when they move their bodies, use their voices, and engage with rhythm. That’s why music and movement are key components of our daily curriculum — not as side activities, but as essential building blocks of development. Music as a Gateway to Learning Music speaks to children on a deep, intuitive level. It engages the brain, lifts the spirit, and helps young learners connect with each other and the world around them. From familiar nursery rhymes to drumming circles, music activates multiple areas of the brain at once — strengthening memory, pattern recognition, language processing, and emotional regulation. At Welbourne, music is woven into every part of the day. We sing during transitions, hum during cleanup, and dance during group times. The classroom is alive with melody and rhythm — a constant source of learning and joy. Language Development Through Song Singing is one of the most effective ways to support early language development. Songs help children expand vocabulary, practice articulation, and improve listening skills. Repetitive lyrics reinforce word recognition and rhythm supports the natural cadence of speech. We introduce songs from many cultures and languages, reflecting the diversity of our community and helping children appreciate different sounds and traditions. Singing also encourages shy or quiet children to participate and express themselves in non-intimidating ways. Movement Builds Strong Bodies and Minds Children are not meant to sit still for long. Movement is not a break from learning — it is learning. Whether it’s marching, stretching, swaying, or stomping, children build coordination, balance, and strength every time they move. In our classrooms, movement happens intentionally and often: We use action songs to teach concepts like left and right, fast and slow, or high and low. We introduce yoga poses to teach body awareness and emotional regulation. We hold dance parties that promote social interaction and self-confidence. All of this movement is more than fun — it supports neurological development, encourages sensory integration, and increases classroom engagement. Emotional Expression Through Music Music provides children with a safe and creative outlet to express their feelings. When words are hard to find, music gives children a voice. A quiet child might beat a drum to release frustration. A joyful child may twirl and spin with abandon. A group might bond through a shared clapping rhythm. We offer instruments, scarves, and open space to encourage children to explore and communicate through sound and movement. These moments help children regulate emotions, relieve anxiety, and build resilience. Cultural Awareness Through Sound Music is a universal language — but it’s also a powerful way to introduce children to the richness of global cultures. We celebrate music from around the world in our classrooms, exposing children to different rhythms, instruments, and languages. Whether it's African drumming, Caribbean steel pan, South Asian tabla, or European classical, each genre opens a window into a new tradition. This exposure fosters respect, appreciation, and cultural curiosity — values we hold dear at Welbourne. Music in Storytelling and Literacy We incorporate music into our storytelling sessions, using rhythm, rhyme, and melody to bring books to life. This integration deepens comprehension, increases attention span, and makes literacy more engaging.  Children also learn to associate sound patterns with letter patterns, improving phonological awareness — a key skill in early reading development. We support this with clapping syllables, rhyming games, and call-and-response chants that make language feel exciting and alive.

For many families, the first day of nursery is filled with anticipation, excitement, and — understandably — a few nerves. It’s a big step, not just for the child, but for parents and caregivers too. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we understand the emotional weight of this transition, and we work hand-in-hand with families to make it as smooth, gentle, and positive as possible. Why Transitions Matter in Early Childhood Children thrive on routine, consistency, and familiarity. Moving from the comfort of home into a new setting filled with unfamiliar people, sounds, and expectations can be overwhelming at first. How we support children during this transition shapes their confidence, their relationships with caregivers, and their willingness to explore and engage. At Welbourne, we approach the transition from home to nursery with empathy, patience, and personalized support. No two children are the same, so no two transitions look exactly alike — and that’s okay. Building Trust Before the First Day Our transition process begins well before a child’s first full day. We invite families for orientation visits, classroom walkthroughs, and one-on-one meetings with educators. These early connections lay the foundation for trust — both for the child and the parent. Children have a chance to see the classroom, meet their teachers, and explore materials at their own pace. Parents can ask questions, share their hopes and concerns, and begin to build relationships with the staff. We also encourage families to share key details about their child’s temperament, routines, and preferences. The more we know about a child before they arrive, the better we can meet their needs from day one. Creating Predictable, Nurturing Routines One of the most effective ways to help children feel secure is to provide a consistent, predictable daily routine. From drop-off to pick-up, our classrooms follow a familiar rhythm that helps children know what to expect and when. We use visual schedules, transitional songs, and gentle verbal cues to help children move smoothly between activities. Over time, this structure becomes internalized — and children begin to anticipate and participate in the flow of the day with growing confidence. Gentle Goodbyes, Confident Hellos For many families, the hardest moment is saying goodbye in the morning. We support this moment with kindness and reassurance, never rushing a child (or parent) through their emotions. Children are given time to settle in, connect with a familiar adult, and choose a comforting activity to ease the transition. We also help parents develop a consistent drop-off routine — whether it’s a special goodbye phrase, a wave at the window, or a short cuddle in the cozy corner. Children feel more at ease when goodbyes are consistent and predictable. Our teachers check in with parents during these early days, offering updates and encouragement to help them feel confident in their child’s progress. Supporting Emotional Expression Starting nursery is an emotional experience, and big feelings are a normal part of the process. Whether a child expresses sadness, frustration, excitement, or uncertainty, we respond with empathy and validation. Rather than distracting children from their feelings, we help them name and process them. “It’s okay to miss your mummy. She’ll be back after snack time.” These small acknowledgments build emotional intelligence and a sense of safety. Building Strong Relationships with Educators Children are more likely to feel secure in a new environment when they form strong bonds with their caregivers. That’s why we focus on building trusting, respectful relationships from the very beginning. Each child is paired with a key person — an educator who takes special responsibility for their transition, care, and emotional needs. This relationship acts as a bridge between home and school, helping children feel grounded as they adapt to their new setting. Through cuddles, play, and consistent presence, our educators become trusted figures in the child’s life — offering comfort and connection when it’s needed most. Parent Partnerships During the Transition We believe that parents are the experts on their own children, and we value their insight and input. During the transition period, we maintain close communication with families — whether through daily conversations, written notes, or quick check-ins at pick-up. We provide updates on how children are settling in, what activities they’re enjoying, and how they’re engaging with peers. This transparency helps families feel connected and reassured, even when they’re apart from their child. We also listen carefully to parents’ observations, questions, and concerns, adjusting our approach as needed to ensure every child feels supported. Gradual Start Options For families who prefer a slower introduction to nursery, we offer flexible, gradual start schedules. This may involve shorter days at first, a parent staying for part of the session, or a phased-in approach over the course of a week. These gradual starts give children time to build comfort and familiarity without feeling overwhelmed — and they give parents peace of mind knowing their child is supported every step of the way. The Transformation Over Time It’s remarkable to witness how quickly most children settle into nursery life. A child who cried at drop-off for the first week begins to run in with a smile. Another who clung tightly to a parent’s leg now waves proudly from the window. These moments, while small, are powerful reminders of children’s resilience and capacity for growth. With the right support, what begins as a difficult transition becomes a joyful routine — a new world of friendships, discoveries, and confidence.

In today’s fast-paced, screen-filled world, the simple act of stepping outside can feel like a breath of fresh air — especially for young children. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop to learning — it’s a teacher in its own right. That’s why we intentionally weave nature-based play into our daily rhythm, helping children connect with the world around them while building essential skills. The Power of Outdoor Exploration Children are naturally drawn to the outdoors. Whether it’s picking up sticks, chasing butterflies, or digging in the dirt, outdoor play taps into their innate curiosity and creativity. But nature play does more than just entertain — it develops the senses, strengthens the body, and calms the mind. When children spend time outside, they become more observant. They learn to listen to the wind, feel the change in seasons, and notice the tiny details in the world around them. This attentiveness translates into greater focus and patience in the classroom, too. Building Confidence Through Risk and Discovery Outdoor environments offer opportunities for healthy risk-taking — climbing a log, balancing on a rock, or building a shelter with friends. These experiences help children test their limits, make decisions, and problem-solve in real time. At Welbourne, we provide safe, supervised opportunities for children to engage with nature in meaningful ways. Our teachers step back to let children lead, while staying nearby to offer guidance and support. This balance allows children to build both independence and trust. Physical Development in Natural Spaces Nature-based play supports gross motor development in ways that indoor settings often can’t. Uneven terrain, slopes, and varied textures challenge muscles, improve coordination, and enhance spatial awareness. Whether it’s running through grass, jumping over puddles, or climbing tree stumps, outdoor play gets children moving in ways that are joyful and developmentally essential. Cognitive Growth Through Sensory Experience The outdoors is rich with sensory input — the smell of rain, the sound of birds, the feel of dirt between fingers. These experiences activate multiple areas of the brain, laying the groundwork for complex thinking and language development. When children describe what they see, hear, or feel, they build vocabulary. When they sort leaves by color or notice patterns in nature, they’re engaging in early science and math. Stewardship and Connection to the Earth By regularly engaging with the natural world, children begin to see themselves as part of it — not separate from it. They learn to care for living things, protect habitats, and respect the cycles of nature. Whether we’re planting seeds, releasing ladybugs, or cleaning up our play yard, we invite children to take an active role in caring for the earth. These small acts build a foundation of environmental responsibility that lasts a lifetime. Weather Is a Learning Opportunity At Welbourne, we don’t wait for the “perfect” weather to go outside. We embrace all types of weather as learning opportunities — with proper gear, of course. Rainy days become sensory adventures. Windy days become science lessons. Chilly mornings become invitations to bundle up and move our bodies. Children quickly learn that there’s no such thing as bad weather — only different kinds of weather, each with its own magic. Nature in the Classroom Our connection to nature doesn’t stop at the door. We bring natural materials into our classroom environments — sticks, stones, shells, pinecones, and more — and use them as open-ended tools for play and learning. We decorate with plants, display seasonal treasures, and change our classroom themes to reflect the rhythm of the year.  This integration helps children make connections between the indoor and outdoor world — reinforcing learning and deepening their sense of place.

Welbourne Avenue Nursery is more than just a place of learning — it’s a community built on belonging. In our classrooms, diversity isn’t just acknowledged; it’s celebrated. Inclusion isn’t a buzzword; it’s a daily practice. And equity isn’t an abstract goal; it’s a core principle that guides every decision we make. A Welcoming Environment for All From the moment a child and their family walk through our doors, they are greeted with warmth, acceptance, and genuine interest. We know that families come in all forms and from all walks of life. Whether it’s cultural background, language, family structure, ability, or belief system, we recognize and respect the unique identity each family brings to our community. We work to create an environment where every child sees themselves represented — in books, in artwork, in the stories we tell, and in the people around them. This sense of visibility helps children feel valued and understood. Why DEI Matters in Early Childhood Young children are constantly forming ideas about themselves and others. They notice differences in skin color, language, clothing, and customs — and they begin to assign meaning to those differences. If we don’t actively guide them toward inclusivity and respect, they may adopt biases they see modeled elsewhere. At Welbourne, we take this responsibility seriously. Our educators are trained to facilitate age-appropriate conversations about identity, fairness, and empathy. We teach children that being different isn’t just okay — it’s beautiful. And we encourage them to ask questions, share their stories, and learn from one another. A Curriculum that Reflects the World Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to reflect the world children live in — with all its richness and variety. In any given week, you might find children: Reading stories about families from different cultures Exploring foods, music, or traditions from around the globe Celebrating holidays from multiple faiths and backgrounds Learning simple words in multiple languages These experiences don’t just expand knowledge — they expand hearts. Children begin to understand that there are many ways to live, and that every way is worthy of respect. Inclusive Practices in the Classroom Inclusion means more than making space for difference — it means adapting and evolving to meet the needs of every child. That’s why we take a flexible, individualized approach to teaching and caregiving. We provide accommodations and modifications to ensure all children can participate fully. Whether a child has a learning difference, sensory sensitivity, or physical disability, we work with families to ensure that their child is supported, challenged, and included. We also address issues of equity in how we allocate time, attention, and resources — ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to the opportunities they need to thrive. Educator Development and Reflection Our commitment to DEI extends to our staff, too. Welbourne educators engage in ongoing professional development to deepen their understanding of cultural competence, anti-bias education, and inclusive teaching strategies. We challenge ourselves to reflect on our own assumptions, recognize privilege and systemic barriers, and advocate for change where needed. We create spaces for open dialogue among staff, share resources, and lean on one another for growth. This internal culture of learning and accountability makes our external work with children and families even stronger. Partnering with Families Families are our most important partners in DEI work. We invite them to share their stories, celebrate their cultures, and contribute to the life of our classrooms. Whether it’s reading a book in their home language, cooking a traditional dish, or helping us learn about a special holiday, families play a central role in shaping our community. We also recognize that every family is on their own journey when it comes to talking about identity, race, and inclusion. That’s why we provide resources, host conversations, and offer support to help parents feel empowered in raising compassionate, inclusive children.  Representation in Leadership and Materials Representation matters. That’s why we ensure that our leadership team, staff, and curriculum materials reflect the diverse identities within our community. Children need to see people who look like them in positions of care and authority. They need to hear stories that mirror their lives and challenge harmful stereotypes. By intentionally curating books, visuals, toys, and even staff hiring practices, we send a clear message: Every child matters here. Looking Ahead: DEI as a Lifelong Commitment We know that the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion is never finished. It requires ongoing commitment, listening, and growth. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we are committed to staying engaged in this work — not as a checkbox, but as a fundamental part of who we are. We want every child who comes through our doors to leave with more than kindergarten readiness. We want them to leave with a deep sense of self-worth, an appreciation for difference, and a toolkit for building a kinder, more just world.