The Lowry educators are considered facilitators and co-researchers within the realm of children’s learning.  They plan experiences based on the children’s interests and provocations derived from their observations and anecdotal notes of the children’s experiences and involvement.  The program encourages emergent reading, writing, art, music and movement skills and abilities.  Hands-on experiences with stimulating and interesting materials promote children’s understanding and mastery of various math and science concepts.  There is a focus on encouraging children’s logical thinking through problem solving and mediation.

The curriculum is designed from an eclectic approach; meaning parts of various philosophies and formats are incorporated to ensure a quality program.  The daily routine is comprised of planning time, work time, and recall time as defined by the HighScope Curriculum.  Project work (Project Based Learning) provides children with the opportunity to truly use their minds and delve more deeply into exploring various topics and questions.  Project work takes the process of systematic instruction (various educational concepts) to a more hands-on, investigative and explorative level.  It provides children with the opportunity to predict, test out, and evaluate their ideas, questions, and interests.  Within the project approach, learning becomes intrinsically motivating for children as they initiate their own learning and discovery.  As children are involved in more project experiences, they become familiar and competent in the process and framework of planning, exploring and further developing, and concluding a piece of work that is something interesting and worthwhile for them.  Their hands-on involvement in the process allows them to relate new skills and concepts to past experiences and to synthesize new and old experiences.  Elements of the Reggio Emilia approach are also evident as interactions between adults and children occur, environments are planned, and children’s ideas are valued.

The program strives to help children develop a strong self-esteem, to grow in trust and autonomy, to develop a sense of curiosity and a desire to learn.  Ongoing authentic assessment through observations, anecdotal notes, and portfolio collections assure individual children’s development and growth.  The program utilizes the HighScope Child Observation Record (COR) as an assessment tool.

All adults working with children maintain a respectful and supportive relationship with them.  Interactions and verbal guidance are stated in a positive manner that suggests the desired behavior or activity.  Children are encouraged and enabled to become independent and responsible for their own needs, social interactions and behaviors.

The Lowry Center believes that success of each child’s experience and learning is dependent upon the relationship between the staff, families, and children.  A strong sense of community is developed when all participants are focused on the children.