Socially, we emphasize old-fashioned civility. Being respectful and expecting to be respected takes practice. We ask "will you please...?" when we want something. The children learn to have a clear understanding of property rights. A child can play with a toy until they're done; knowing how children grow through interacting with materials, we respect that they are learning. When they're finished, they bring the toy to the next child, who can have it until they're done. When it isn't clear who is playing with something, we ask them to resolve the problem by coming up with a solution both children agree on.

We emphasize sharing control with the children. We take turns choosing songs and activities. For example: "Listen to the teacher. Now we listen to you. Do what the teacher does. Now we do what you do." Having a chance to have everyone follow what you want to do is very exciting! Being listened to teaches one to value listening.

We use positive language to encourage children, focusing on asking them to do what we want in a positive way, rather than telling them what not to do. We work on having an environment that offers the opportunity for creative free play. Stepping back to observe the child's intent is important. "No" is not the automatic response. We ask questions first to see the situation from the child's perspective. When you listen to all sides in a situation, what you originally observed is not always the whole story. The teacher's role is to be open and help children express themselves. Then they can work to create their own solutions.

We traditionally have families from all over the world. We have had many children come to us with no English. It is astounding how quickly immersion teaches a new language. We value cultural differences and appreciate how this benefits small children socially. Early exposure to other cultures expands their acceptance of the unfamiliar.