It is the intention of the center to provide an atmosphere and a child-oriented, developmentally appropriate curriculum where children learn through play and exploring their environment. Children will have the opportunity to become independent, to successfully solve problems and to learn to express their ideas and feelings.

The center will provide an emotionally safe environment; everyone, teachers and children, should treat everyone else with respect. They know that if this does not happen, then they have a responsibility to find a way to take care of the problem with the help of a teacher.

Teachers will continually role model behavior for children and help them negotiate with one another. Problems may arise and children may become upset or angry. It is okay to experience those emotions, but children will learn that there are more socially acceptable ways to handle these emotions than others. They will be aided in their efforts to develop more self-control and will be empowered to participate in the development of strategies to do so.