Every child is a unique individual. Selecting the right preschool for your child can be a challenge.

At Canyon Rim Children's Center, or CRCC, we are dedicated to the individuality of children. Children develop habits of observation, questioning and listening. A CRCC child learns to make choices. They do not always have to conform so long as he or she stays within the limits of consideration for other people and things. Our planned and open-ended program prepares children to utilize their intellectual and creative abilities in future learning tasks.

The writings of Jean Piaget and Eric Erickson provide the framework upon which our program is based. A CRCC teacher's responsibility is to assist each child in growing to their full potential in a secure and loving environment.

Our goal is to meet each child's emotional, social, cognitive and physical needs. This is carried out in a relaxed environment, free from personal criticism and excessive competition. Activities are fashioned, which facilitate transition from one developmental stage to the next. These include art, music, math, language, science, dramatic play, fine and gross motor development. Each classroom is arranged to accommodate a wide range of interest centers.

The child-to-teacher ratios and teacher qualifications are important considerations. CRCC class ratios are lower than is required by state licensing. Our lead teachers are required to hold at least an associate degree in child development. Many of our teachers hold baccalaureate degrees, in addition to the required child development courses.

At CRCC we believe home/school communication is of the utmost importance. We keep parents informed through written notices, e-mails, newsletters, and formal and informal conferences. After a child has been in the program for three months, a formal developmental profile, including teacher observations is prepared. This is done twice each year for as long as the child is enrolled.

CRCC provides a full-day, year-round enrichment program for children ages 2 through 6. CRCC is open from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. For information or to schedule a visit, call (619) 287-6767.

Submitted by Trice Barr, director of Canyon Rim Children's Center.