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Full-Day Preschool Program
Little Learners, Big Discoveries, Endless Possibilities!
Where Learning Through Play Builds a Foundation for Lifelong Success
Step inside a Nativity Early Learning Center (NELC) preschool classroom, and you'll discover a world filled with curiosity, creativity, laughter, and learning!
From building towers and creating masterpieces to exploring science, sharing stories, and making new friends, every day is filled with meaningful opportunities for children to learn, grow, and discover the world around them.
At NELC, we believe that play is the foundation of early childhood learning. Our dedicated teachers create engaging, hands-on experiences that encourage children to ask questions, solve problems, express themselves, and build confidence in a safe, nurturing, and faith-filled environment.
Our preschool curriculum is designed to support the development of the whole child while building the social, emotional, and academic skills that prepare children for kindergarten and future success.Our Approach to Learning
Nurturing the Whole Child — Mind, Body, and Spirit
Our curriculum is guided by the Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress (ECIPs) and focuses on six essential areas of early childhood development, along with Religious Education rooted in our Catholic faith.
Each learning area is thoughtfully incorporated into daily classroom experiences, allowing children to develop important skills naturally through purposeful play, exploration, and meaningful interactions.1. Social & Emotional Development
Building Confidence, Friendships & Kind Hearts
We help children understand their feelings, develop positive relationships, and build a strong sense of self. Through classroom routines, cooperative play, and everyday interactions, children learn to:- Recognize and express emotions in healthy ways.
- Develop friendships and practice teamwork.
- Show kindness, empathy, and respect for others.
- Build independence, confidence, and self-esteem.
- Practice problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
2. Approaches to Learning
Inspiring Curiosity, Creativity & a Love of Discovery
Children are naturally curious, and we encourage them to explore, imagine, experiment, and embrace new challenges. Our teachers nurture:- Curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
- Creative thinking and imagination.
- Confidence to try new things.
- Persistence and problem-solving skills.
- Independence, flexibility, and reflection.
3. Language & Literacy Development
Growing Little Readers, Writers & Communicators
Language and literacy are woven into every part of our preschool day. Through stories, songs, conversations, and playful learning experiences, children strengthen their ability to:- Listen, communicate, and express ideas.
- Develop vocabulary and language skills.
- Recognize letters, sounds, and rhyming patterns.
- Explore books and develop a love of reading.
- Practice early writing and storytelling.
Our goal is to help children become confident communicators while building a strong foundation for future reading and writing success.4. Creativity & the Arts
Where Imagination Comes to Life!
We believe creativity is an important part of how children learn and express themselves. Through art, music, movement, and imaginative play, children have opportunities to:- Explore different art materials and techniques.
- Express thoughts, feelings, and ideas creatively.
- Participate in music, dance, and dramatic play.
- Appreciate their own creations and the work of others.
- Build confidence through creative expression.
At NELC, we celebrate the process of creating, not just the finished masterpiece!5. Cognitive Development
Little Thinkers, Big Ideas!
Our classrooms are filled with opportunities to explore early math, science, reasoning, and problem-solving skills through hands-on discovery.
Children develop skills in:- Early Math: Counting, number recognition, sorting, patterns, shapes, measurement, and spatial awareness.
- Science & Exploration: Observing, predicting, experimenting, investigating, and asking questions.
- Problem-Solving: Thinking critically, making connections, and discovering solutions.
- Understanding Our World: Learning about families, communities, relationships, cultures, and the world around us.
Whether children are building with blocks, conducting a science experiment, or exploring nature, they are developing important thinking skills through everyday experiences.6. Physical & Motor Development
Growing Strong, Healthy & Active!
Movement and active play are essential to healthy childhood development. We provide opportunities for children to strengthen both gross and fine motor skills while developing healthy habits.
Our activities encourage:- Running, jumping, climbing, balancing, and coordination.
- Fine motor skills through drawing, cutting, building, and manipulating materials.
- Body awareness, balance, and physical confidence.
- Healthy habits, independence, and self-care.
- Teamwork and cooperation through active play.
Daily outdoor play and movement activities give children opportunities to stay active, explore, and develop important physical skills.7. Religious Education
Growing in Faith, Kindness & God's Love
As part of the Nativity of Our Lord Catholic community, faith is an important part of our preschool experience.
We introduce children to God's love through developmentally appropriate activities, meaningful conversations, and everyday acts of kindness.
Our faith-based learning includes:- Learning about God, Jesus, and stories from the Bible.
- Introducing simple prayers and expressions of gratitude.
- Practicing kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and respect.
- Celebrating Catholic holidays and traditions throughout the year.
- Encouraging children to care for others and appreciate God's creation.
- Helping children recognize that they are each uniquely loved and valued.
Through these experiences, we help children build a foundation of faith while learning the importance of love, friendship, and community.Learning, Growing & Thriving Together!
At Nativity Early Learning Center, we recognize that every child is unique, with their own interests, strengths, personality, and pace of development.
Our experienced teachers create a supportive and engaging environment where children feel comfortable exploring, asking questions, trying new things, and celebrating their accomplishments.
By combining purposeful play, research-based learning experiences, positive relationships, and Catholic values, we help children develop the confidence, independence, and foundational skills they need for a successful transition to kindergarten and beyond.
At NELC, we're not just preparing children for school — we're nurturing confident learners, caring friends, and kind hearts for the future!