“Our Early Learner preschool program is inviting, inspiring, and authentic with a joyful and playful culture. Reflection is ongoing and the opportunities for rich dialogue with young children are visible in every part of our day. In our classroom, children are seen, heard, valued, and loved by adults who are wholly present alongside them. It is a space that honors childhood, respects children’s ideas and creations, and challenges them to be deeply engaged participants in their learning and their community.” ~Taira Guerrero, Early Learner Director and Teacher
Innovative Early Childhood Education
The Foothills Early Learner preschool program engages curious learners ages three to five, helping them develop essential skills through creative play and projects. Inspired by the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy, our rich curriculum is rooted in children’s interests. Through play, Early Learner PreK children build relationships with others and explore the world around them. Projects allow children to learn how to work with one another, develop friendships, and support each other as part of a community. Children’s curiosity and joy form the foundation for their lifelong learning.

A Joyful Community for Exploring, Learning, and Growing
In the Early Learners, children have a say in their learning. Teachers encourage children to take risks, create solutions to problems, and dig deeply into their wonderings. Our indoor and outdoor environments spark curiosity and creativity with real-life tools, elements of nature, and open-ended materials. As Early Learners navigate these environments, they develop skills and practices that support them in their confidence, emotional intelligence, and self-sufficiency. Families are essential partners in children’s learning and development. Teachers record children’s thinking and growth in all areas of development through documentation that gives families a window into their children’s learning.
Our Reggio-Inspired Early Education Includes
- A creative, stimulating, and beautiful environment
- An “emergent” curriculum that is drawn from the children's interests
- In-depth and collaborative project work including frequent outdoor experiences and community connections
- Daily documentation of children’s experiences
Early Learners Develop
Independence
- Ability to use real tools safely
- Confidence to take risks
- Willingness to take care of themselves and their space
- Trusted to make choices and direct the flow of their day

Expression With Confidence
- Sharing ideas in front of a group
- Choosing projects based on their interest
- Creating original artwork
social-emotional skills
- Making meaningful contributions to class discussions and projects
- Listening to the ideas of others
- Developing strong friendships
- Peaceful conflict resolution
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving SKILLS
- Persisting when faced with challenges
- Asking deeper questions
- Finding creative ways to use new materials
Early Learner Daily Schedule
Our program schedule provides a predictable, daily routine for Early Learners that is responsive to the current community of learners. Within this framework, children have the opportunity to make choices throughout the day. Click here to see the Early Learner Daily Schedule.