DIG Philosophy
At DIG we offer a safe, nurturing, sensory-rich environment where parents share in their child’s first school experience outside of the home.
Teachers, parents, and children can work, play, learn, and grow together as a family and as a supportive community.
As a community we agree to combat racism, homophobia, classism, ageism, bodyism, sexism, and religious and non-religious discrimination. Nor do we discriminate on the basis of national origin, ethnic origin, ablity, special needs, or gender identity. We also believe that feeling and being safe is a basic human right and we wholeheartedly support Black Lives Matter.
We believe that a creative, developmentally-appropriate, child-directed learning environment—supported by family—can create a positive attitude towards future learning. We promote individual interests and offer a varied environment for exploration and discovery, we support the growing physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of the whole child.
Our Philosophy In Practice
Child-led Learning, Play-based Program
Creates freedom for children to practice and test out their new skills.1:4 Adult to Child Ratio
Allows for individual needs to be met.Focus on Social-emotional Growth
Development is understood and celebrated, mistakes are allowed, feelings are validated, and connecting with others is supported.Outdoor Classroom
We believe children need a connection with nature in order to be whole. Full integration of indoor and outdoor spaces offers an optimal learning and growing environment for young children.Non-judgmental Approach
Allows individual to experience life for him/herself, with guidance, not control, building an intrinsic sense of self and an acceptance of others’ differences.Family Participation
Creates a bond between teachers, parents, and children.Support for Parents and Families
Strengthens family dynamics and well-being, creates an extended family.
Parent Participation
DIG is a parent participation preschool, which means we have parents and family members working in the school environment. We do this because it helps keep our adult-to-child ratio low (1:4) and also because it helps build community. Being in the school and working with the children allows for a greater understanding of how the school works, how the philosophy is applied, and brings a greater connection between you, your child, and the school community.
The parent participation requirements for the preschool are as follows:
A grown-up from each family must work one “Parent Provider” shift every 4 weeks (this means working in the classroom as a teacher, with ample support from our staff).
Each family must fulfill the obligations of a “Family Job.” Family Jobs range from extra shifts in the classroom, to laundry duties, website design, etc.
At least one grown-up from each family must attend each of up to 7 “Parent Education Meetings” throughout the year.
At least one grown-up from each family must participate in 2 “Maintenance Days” to help clean, repair, and beautify our school every year.
