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At Chickpeas, 3 and 4 year olds are part of one group, fostering an environment where the younger children learn from the older ones, while older children have the opportunity to mentor, reinforcing recently acquired skills and building their confidence as they prepare for kindergarten.

 

The Chickpeas curriculum reflects important aspects of the progressive Bank Street philosophy, which maintains that young children can best satisfy their curiosity and develop their potential through play in an unhurried, supportive setting. Teachers use an emergent curriculum to create units of study where the topics arise from interests and/or questions children demonstrate during their play. In the past, this has included units on whales, how to cook, bats, outer space, how things are made, travels around the world, etc.

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Chickpea kids are learning how to interact with each other and the world around them. Teachers provide vital guidance, helping them figure out how to resolve disputes, handle frustrations, and collaborate constructively. We encourage independence and create an environment that encourages kids to try new things. 

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As a DOE 3-K and PreK for all school, we also use the Creative Curriculum in the classroom. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool is a comprehensive, research-based curriculum that features exploration and discovery as a way of learning, enabling children to develop confidence, creativity, and lifelong critical-thinking skills. It is designed to help educators at all levels of experience plan and implement a developmentally appropriate, content-rich program for children with diverse backgrounds and skill levels.

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Chickpeas also takes monthly field trips to local spots and establishments in the community such as Terrace Bagels, the fire station, Prospect Park, the public library, Hootenanny, Tiny Scientist, Puppetworks, etc.