TLC's Preschool and Pre-K Care
Preschool Care & Curriculum
Many of the important skills that prepare young people for a successful future originate from interactions during play. Through research-based activities and academic games selected by TLC’s highly trained teachers, children have experiences that help them develop an understanding of the social and physical conditions that define the world around them. Structured and unstructured social interactions play a fundamental role in the development of cognition.
Listening, speaking, reading and writing (language arts skills) are developed by a variety of activities. Reading books, singing, and finger plays are designed to build verbal skills, phonemic awareness and listening comprehension. During language-based play, children develop receptive and expressive language skills which also build vocabulary. Our curriculum also includes the highly regarded reading readiness program, ABC Music & Me. The program is a "research-based language and early literacy program built around music." TLC also uses the Handwriting Without Tears® program which incorporates hands-on activities and multi-sensory teaching strategies that build good handwriting habits early.
Like many elementary schools in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, TLC uses Everyday Math curriculum and materials. “Everyday Mathematics is a structured, rigorous, and proven program that helps students learn mathematical reasoning and develop strong math skills.” Science skills are honed by experimenting with materials of various size, shape, and texture. Activities such as puzzles stimulate and advance problem solving skills. In addition, the complexity of block play exposes children to lessons of force, gravity and motion. TLC teachers expose children to the games, songs, and cultural holidays of the many heritages in our community.
Social and emotional interactions, physical skills, and creativity also improve with educational games. TLC’s teachers encourage play-based learning by designing extended independent or play-group periods, and providing appropriate materials and resources that encourage and challenge children in their play. Teachers provide the appropriate assistance or scaffolding that will give the child enough of a boost to achieve and eventually master the task.
Preschool and Pre-K Staff
Lauren Kuti, Head Teacher Preschool
Lauren Kuti comes to The Learning Center with her CDA (Child Development Associate Credential) and 12 years experience working with young children. Lauren creates a nurturing, comfortable learning environment with her gentle, patient teaching style. Whether Lauren is singing a song, reading a story, or participating in pretend play, the children in her care feel her warmth, love and respect. |
Lindsey Carlson- Rice, Head Teacher, Pre-K
Lindsey Carlson- Rice holds a Masters Degree in Education with a concentration in Elementary Literacy and Library Science. Lindsey’s belief that all children can be successful learners creates a classroom atmosphere that is stimulating, encouraging and adaptive. Communication is key to her successful collaboration with parents and staff members. |
Brianna Jones, Teaching Assistant,
Preschool Brianna joined TLC in 2021. She is majoring in health promotion and wellness management and Rowan University, with the goal of becoming a PE/Wellness teacher someday. |
Karen Paul, Teaching Assistant, Pre-K
Karen has been working at TLC since 2015. She has also been an assistant in two private schools and a nanny for 2 boys. Karen loves to spend her time with her four children and 3 grandchildren. She also enjoys family time at her home in Ocean City, NJ along with decorating, gardening, and cooking family dinners. Karen is a loving, caring person who welcomes every day with a smile and enjoys the bond she has with the Pre-K children. She feels blessed to be able to spend quality time with them and see them grow, learn and for friendships with each other. 
Savanna McPhail, Teaching Assistant, Pre-K
Savanna joined TLC is March of 2024. She is our passionate and dedicated art teacher, and an assistant teacher in the preschool room. She was president of the art club in high school and often volunteered to paint faces or do caricatures at kid-friendly festivals and events. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes exploring diverse artistic mediums and developing each student’s unique voice. Savanna recently taught summer art classes at TLC with a focus on blending informative topics with the kids' own artistic visions and helping them explore their creative nature. |
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