Values
Inclusion: the belief that children of all abilities learn best when they learn and play together.

Respect for the individual: the belief that each child is precious, and that students should be taught and expected to treat every person with respect.

Dedication to the whole child: the belief that we must strive to provide each student with the skills to succeed in school and life through attention to emotional, social, intellectual and physical development.

Diversity: Children’s Outreach Project believes in maintaining racial, ethnic and economic diversity among its students, staff and Board.

Partnership: the belief that parents, volunteers, community leaders and collaborations with other organizations play an important role in sustaining the excellence of the School and its programs.

Philosophy
All young children are full of potential, and the skills that they develop during the preschool years will stay with them throughout their lives. Positive experiences before age 8 build the foundation that helps children become healthy, competent adults.

Each child is an individual who develops at his or her own pace. Physical, social, emotional and intellectual development all grow during the preschool years, and are linked

Birth to 8 years is the best time to identify and treat possible learning delays. Even mild delays worsen over time, and every child benefits from the guidance and teaching of experienced professionals.

Children learn about themselves and the world around them by observing and interacting with their environment. In order to learn best, children need an environment that has many interesting areas and meaningful activities available for exploration. Environments should be clean, safe, relaxed, positive and designed to maximize child experiences.

Children need self-esteem, communication skills and respect for others in order to succeed. The best way to build these skills is for all adults in the environment to model cooperation, helping, negotiation and compromise.

A young child’s parents are its greatest influence. When parents support their child by participating in and reinforcing his or her learning experiences – at school and at home – the child has a much better chance of growing to his or her full potential. Adults can turn everyday activities into learning moments by guiding children: asking questions, offering encouragement and providing consistent structure.

Discipline means helping children to develop self-control and self-esteem by setting clear predictable limits and using redirection.

Students, families, staff and friends are all part of Children’s Outreach Project community. Our program depends upon this community in order to grow and improve. Each person’s support is essential for C.O.P. to succeed.