We exist to facilitate every child's unique educational journey & to inspire a love of learning.
About Us
Paper Crown Preschool provides meaningful educational opportunities through play within a warm and naturalistic environment. Young children are active learners who benefit most from hands-on activities.
Our classroom teachers approach every activity with the intention of creating a meaningful learning experience that is individualized to meet each child’s needs. We are comprised of two toddler classrooms and one pre-k classroom, providing an intimate experience for families.
Our Curriculum & Environment
Our curriculum and environment are influenced by Waldorf Education and the Vygotsky Approach - Tools of the Mind. One of the principal needs of young children, which is often overlooked in traditional childcare settings, is the need to develop “learning to learn” skills. These skills include but are not limited to: attending to instructions, working memory, planning, problem solving, cooperation, and flexibility. Whether resolving a conflict with a friend, telling a story, or following a new instruction, we all rely on these skills. At Paper Crown we utilize the Tools of the Mind curriculum to focus on the development of such skills while moving at a pace that is appropriate for each child. Traditional academic goals are incorporated into daily activities to ensure a balanced educational experience.
We are Rhode Island's only preschool offering the Tools of the Mind curriculum.
Even the best curriculum can fall short in an environment that is not conducive to learning. Professional experience and research points to minimalist-style classrooms as the most effective for learning. When distractions are minimized, children are able to focus and engage in more intentional play, creating a more meaningful learning experience.
Paper Crown Preschool follows Waldorf recommendations which include soft tones, mostly organic material (wood, cotton, wool, etc.), and limited classroom decor. Preventing overstimulation not only helps promote focused learning, but also supports the growth of a happy, healthy child.
"Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn."
- O. Fred Donaldson
At Paper Crown Preschool we also believe in the importance of time outdoors as there are lessons learned in nature that cannot be taught within the classroom.
Time spent outdoors enhances creative play, provides natural opportunities for the development of social and motor skills, and teaches children an appreciation for the world around them.
Simply put, kids can be kids outdoors. This meaningful time gives children the much needed opportunity to run, scream, climb, make mud pies, and hunt for treasure. We spend a minimum of 2 hours a day outside, rain or shine!
info@papercrownpreschool.com | (401)352-6167