Play-based learning

Each teacher has the freedom to create lesson plans based on The Texas Infant, Toddler, and Three-Year-Old Early Learning Guidelines and The Texas Pre-K Guidelines. The teachers curate learning environments that allow children to learn through play rather than through flashcards, worksheets, or computer screens. They create learning environments and experiences and provide materials that enable space for development to happen naturally rather than forcing it before a child is ready. Through play, children develop a strong foundation and love of learning when they are given space to explore and be curious with materials and the world around them in a safe and loving environment. The staff practices Emergent Curriculum, so the children’s interests are crucial to learning. Children are encouraged to express their creativity and explore new ideas that will develop into higher-level thinking skills as they grow. At WPDS, we are building a solid foundation for future learning!

Outdoor nature play

Our campus has four beautiful, distinct outdoor spaces that allow all our classes to spend at least two hours outside each day (weather permitting). Research shows that kids who learn and play in nature are: physically and mentally healthier, do better in school, have higher self-esteem and self-discipline, are more cooperative with others, are good problem-solvers, feel more capable and confident, and are more creative.

Our school has been awarded the Outdoor Learning Environment (OLE!) Quality Seal from the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children for demonstrating an exemplary outdoor learning environment. OLE! Texas is a statewide initiative that promotes healthful, nature-based outdoor learning spaces at early childcare programs. The award is based on 12 best practice indicators, including some of the following: 10 or more play and learning settings; looping pathway for wheeled toy use; trees, shrubs, and vines that are fruiting species; grassy area for games; a variety of natural, loose materials, accessible for children to play with; designated gardens with produce for snacking; and outdoor classroom and storage space.

Partnerships with parents

As a cooperative preschool, WPDS believes a strong partnership between staff and parents creates the optimal learning environment during children’s early years of development. Research shows that parental involvement in education leads to greater student success and increased confidence. Parents take turns assisting the teacher in the classroom four times over the school year. This opportunity builds community and allows parents to see first-hand what their child’s day is like from start to finish. It also allows parents to get to know the other children in the class and provides parents the opportunity to learn from the supportive guidance of our teachers. 

God’s love

The Day School is a mission of Westminster Presbyterian Church. The curriculum includes observance of Christian celebrations and religious symbols for communicating God’s love. Westminster is an extension into the community of the Church’s respect for openness in human relationships, the worth of the individual, and cooperation among the many adults as they care for children and each other. Children attend Church Times monthly as part of our faith-based program, where a church representative shares a Bible story or lesson. 

High quality

Westminster Presbyterian Day School is a Texas Rising Star (TRS) certified program. TRS is a quality rating and improvement system for Texas early childhood programs. Programs participating in TRS meet higher quality standards than many other child-care programs. TRS assesses programs based on staff qualifications, ongoing professional development, teacher-child interactions, program administration, and indoor and outdoor learning environments. Westminster is proud to have the highest rating of 4 stars from TRS.