Little Seedlings is a first taste of social and experiential learning for two-to three-year-olds. In this transitional program, which many families enjoy before the full Seedlings preschool experience, both children and parents have opportunities to practice creative problem solving, conflict resolution, communication, empathy and respect for others.
- The Little Seedlings program is currently held outdoors on our Shire Playscape with health and safety protocols in place.
- Fall 2022-23 Little Seedlings will meet on Wednesday-Friday mornings from 9:30 am – 12 pm.
- Class size will be limited to a maximum of twelve families per session with two teachers, and two-three parent helpers.
*Changes to the program may occur as health conditions improve.
Little Seedlings program for 2-3 year olds
A transitional program that bridges the gap between parent/child classes and our full Seedlings program. The class encourages more independence in a longer program, three days a week. Parents start the year attending with their child. Each class includes parent participation and ongoing mentoring and support.
Based on the latest early childhood research, Little Seedlings classes promote the social, emotional and intellectual development of each child. We use the Guidance techniques of child development expert Dan Gartrell and draw inspiration from early childhood educator and author, Bev Bos. Particular attention is given to respecting the individual, nurturing problem-solving skills, and creating a sense of cooperation and belonging. Seedlings is a family-friendly program– both parents and children are given the support and nurturing they need to grow.
Sunflower’s Educational Model The Sunflower Model is a developmentally based philosophy of social, emotional and intellectual learning that involves parents as facilitators in their child’s educational experience. The pillars of the model are Respect for the Individual, Learning Through Experience and Learning Within Community. We teach these concepts through hands-on experiences in Play, Nature, and the Arts. Our goal is to grow children and adults who are reflective thinkers, respectful communicators, confident innovators, creative problem-solvers, empathetic peacemakers, passionate players and lifelong learners.
Sunflower was the first “home” Serena (our daughter) and I felt most comfortable in as we navigated life as new mom and baby out in the Boca Raton/Delray Area. It is a unique environment where I have felt open and safe to grow as a parent and person, a place that I know my daughter loves to come to and explore who she is as a child growing up in this ever-changing world. – Saskia M., Little Seedlings mom
Watching the Intro to Little Seedlings video is the first step in the Little Seedlings registration process. In this Zoom Intro, led by Little Seedlings Director, Annette Gerlitz Appel, parents learn about Sunflower’s educational philosophy and get an overview of the Little Seedlings program. If you have questions about anything Sunflower-and Little Seedlings-related, this video is where you’ll find your answers.
Respect for the Individual
- Children choose their own activities and are encouraged to express feelings and opinions.
- Parents receive resources, mentoring and support to make their own choices about what works best for their family.
Learning Through Experience
Emphasis on hands-on, sensory experiences in Play, Nature and the Arts, including opportunities for process-oriented art, music, science, nature exploration, and dramatic play.
Learning Within Community
- A cooperative program with parents and teachers working together to provide an inspiring, supportive mixed-age learning environment.
- Teachers work with children and parents to develop good communication and conflict resolution skills.