Introduction/specifics

The Waldstraße daycare center operates according to the "open kindergarten" concept. This approach is defined by a view of the child as an active participant and the architect of their own development.

Every child has an innate drive to grow.

Every child is unique.

Every child has their own way of understanding and learning.

The staff view themselves as companions in the child's development. Stimuli, activities, and a stimulating environment within the center are guided by the children's developmental needs and questions.

The center’s key areas of focus are:

• Nature and forest based education
• Scientific exploration
• A world of movement

We provide freedom and opportunities to make choices, thereby fostering the child's drive for independence. We encourage children to follow their own needs and to take increasing personal responsibility for their own learning and satisfaction.

We see ourselves as a facility where children experience a fundamental sense of belonging:

"I am allowed to be here with my own unique qualities; I am welcome. The kindergarten is here for me. It is also my space—a place where I can play and live alongside others, feel at ease, and participate." (Quoted from G. Regel)

A detailed description of our educational approach can be found in the center's conceptual framework at: http://www.sankt-augustin.de/cms123/familie_bildung_soziales/kindertagesbetreuung/artikel/41359/index.shtmlb