Growing Through Hope
Our Educational Philosophy
Parental participation is a valued component of our child development program
Our philosophy regards parents as the primary educators and advocates in children’s lives and considers the development of the whole child within the context of his/her family and community.
Our belief that all children can learn is represented in activities, routines, and practices that identify and nurture each child’s unique abilities and provide inclusive services for all children by supporting their full participation, and making accommodations when they are needed. Hope recognizes the value of including young children with disabilities in our programs and activities with typically developing peers. We believe the benefits for all children are considerable and that all children can grow in an inclusive, diverse environment. Hope supports all efforts to make every child an important part of our program.
How Children Learn
The Social Constructivist Theory of Learning
In 2006, we expanded our programs to include after-school and summer camp opportunities, allowing us to serve even more children and families. Our move to 81 Olive Street in historic Wooster Square marked another important milestone, creating a safe, welcoming environment where children could learn, grow, and thrive.
Inspired by the pioneering work of Dr. Edward Zigler, architect of the federal Head Start program, our educational philosophy continues to emphasize high-quality early learning, strong family partnerships, and equitable opportunities for every child.
A Perspective from the Classroom
How intentional teaching, relationships, play, and reflection shape the learning experience at Hope.
Delva Moore
Education Coordinator
Hope Child Development Center
At Hope, learning is intentional, play-based, and centered around relationships. Children learn by doing, exploring, creating, asking questions, communicating, and interacting with others. Our curriculum connects to the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS), NAEYC’s principles of developmentally appropriate practice, our Spiritual Goals, and Social Constructivism. We believe children learn through their relationships with others, through language and conversation, and through working and playing together.
Our teachers take the time to get to know each child. Through observation and everyday interactions, teachers learn about children's interests, strengths, developmental needs, culture, language, and experiences. This helps teachers plan learning experiences that are meaningful and appropriate for the children in their classroom. Children are encouraged to make choices, take the lead, learn from their peers, and explore at their own developmental level, while teachers know when to step in and extend their learning.
As Education Coordinator, I look for children who are actively engaged in their learning, not simply completing an activity. I also look at the role of the teacher. Are they observing and listening? Are they asking questions that encourage children to think? Do they know when to guide, when to step back, and when to allow children to take the lead? To me, meaningful learning happens when children are active participants in the experience and educators are intentional in how they support and extend that learning.
What may look like children simply playing or participating in an activity often involves thoughtful planning, observation, reflection, and professional decision-making. Our educators work together to share observations, problem-solve, reflect on what is working, and support one another. Through ongoing professional learning, we continue to strengthen our teachers' knowledge and skills so they can provide the best experiences possible for the children in their care.
Most importantly, we want children to leave Hope with a strong foundation of faith, confidence, curiosity, compassion, resilience, independence, and a love of learning. We want every child to know that they are valued, they belong, their voice matters, and they are capable of making a difference.
Our Learning Communities
One shared commitment, taking shape across three distinct learning communities.
Hope For New Haven’s approach to early education extends across Hope Child Development Center and the future Legacy Learning Lab and Genesis Educational Center. Each reflects a distinct vision while carrying forward our commitment to children and families.
Explore Our Early Childhood Education Programs
