Pumpkin's Corner is a small, in-home, owner-run daycare program.  With a maximum class size of six students, my assistant teacher and I are able to provide personalized attention to each child.  Our teaching philosophy is a mixed Montessori and Reggio-Emilia inspired curriculum with a project-based approach. We also believe children learn and develop through play.

The Reggio Emilia philosophy of education, originating in the town of Reggio Emilia in Italy, emphasizes the importance of a child-centered approach to learning. It views children as competent, resourceful individuals capable of constructing their own knowledge through interaction with peers, teachers, and their environment. This approach values collaboration, creativity, and exploration, placing a strong emphasis on the arts, including visual arts, music, and drama, as languages through which children can express their understanding of the world. Teachers in Reggio Emilia-inspired settings act as guides and co-learners rather than instructors, fostering a learning environment that values inquiry, reflection, and the unique perspectives of each child.  

Montessori education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is founded on the belief that children are inherently motivated to learn and possess an innate desire for independence. This philosophy emphasizes a prepared environment where children can freely choose from a range of developmentally appropriate activities. Montessori classrooms are equipped with specially designed materials that encourage hands-on learning and self-discovery, fostering skills in practical life, sensory exploration, language, mathematics, and cultural subjects. Teachers in Montessori settings act as facilitators, observing each child’s interests and progress to provide individualized guidance and support. The Montessori philosophy values respect for the child’s natural development, promoting self-discipline, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.