Kids Are Special People is the First United Methodist Church's licensed, accredited Christian Early Care program. KASP is comprised of an "Early Education Loop" for children 6 weeks through 2 years and an extended-day preschool for children ages 3-5. KASP was created to provide a safe, nurturing, Christian atmosphere in which children will learn, discover, explore and grow. Creative, loving teachers encourage positive self-esteem, independence, problem-solving, communication and socialization skills. We believe a child's play is their work and encourage cognitive, small motor and large motor activities. KASP provides a Christian atmosphere of respect and loving appreciation for each child and for the wonders of God's world. KASP recognizes and celebrates the unique backgrounds, gifts and differing abilities of all God's children. Our guiding principle is our name:
KIDS ARE SPECIAL PEOPLE!
Our Goals
- To provide a safe and loving atmosphere for your child.
- To provide an environment that promotes a positive self-image.
- To provide positive socialization skills.
- To create a place to practice self-help skills and problem solving.
- To promote the development of the Whole Child: Cognitive, Physical, Social, Spiritual, and Emotional.
- Our Programs
Early Education Looping Six Weeks-2 Years
In our infant and toddler's classes we provide a warm and nurturing environment for children to grow and explore. Our ratios remain very low to provide as much one-on-one time as possible. Young children learn best when they feel secure; they develop trust and security when they know the caregivers will be right there to help if they are hungry, wet, learning to crawl or walk, or simply uncomfortable. At KASP we recognize this is a special bond, and one caregiver moves with the children from class to class starting in our infant room and ending in our 2/3's class. This allows the caregiver the opportunity to know a child's individual characteristics and preferences. Our teachers also develop a deep bond with the entire family, thus supporting a strong team approach.
All-Star Extended Day Preschool 3-5 Years
In our extended-day preschool classes we offer a full day of activities to engage and challenge young minds. KASP offers rich experiences for this age group exploring themes and different seasonal experiences. Many opportunities to learn and develop through play and experimentation are given. Language and literacy skills, mathematics, science, social studies, art, drama and music are all a part of the integrated curriculum that we emphasize. Spanish lessons are also a part of our regular program. Teachers in these classes strive to develop a sense of community within the classrooms. We acknowledge that conflicts are a natural part of development, and inevitable in the early childhood classroom. Teachers assist children in working through conflicts by helping them discover and use words to address confrontational issues. This approach allows children to learn to be respectful of others while they themselves feel valued and respected.
After School Program
KASP is now offering an extended day program to children that are enrolled in Kindergarten through 5th grade. This program offers children a safe and enriching opportunity to be with their peers under direct supervision after school. Physical play, homework time, projects, and age appropriate games are some of the choices. The class will be held Monday-Friday from 11:30 to 5:30 for half day kindergartners. Grades 1-5 begins at 3 pm. We now provide transportation for children from neighboring schools. We also provide full day care when schools have holidays, in-service days and extended breaks.
Call 208-343-8441 for more information and www.kidsarespecialpeople.com
