Understanding Preschool Curricula: A Parent's Guide That Makes Sense
Picking the right preschool? Yeah, that can feel like a lot. There are so many styles and teaching methods out there, and as a parent, you’re probably just trying to figure out what’s best for your kid without getting overwhelmed.
Whether you’re hunting down the perfect preschool in Sherman Oaks or looking into quality child care nearby, this guide will help you through different curriculum types and maybe even make the whole thing a little less stressful.
Montessori Method: Letting Kids Learn Their Way
Montessori schools are all about letting the kids learn at their own pace, with a lot of freedom and a bit of structure. Here’s how it usually works:
Kids get to choose activities from a bunch of teacher-approved stuff.
Classrooms are set up to help kids be independent and focused.
Teachers don’t "teach" as much as they guide, quietly helping out when needed.
Best for: Curious kids who like doing stuff on their own.
Some schools around Sherman Oaks follow this method, and the vibe is usually calm, quiet, and pretty peaceful.
Reggio Emilia Approach: Where Creativity Takes the Lead
This one started in Italy and focuses on collaboration, art, and letting kids explore. It sees kids as capable thinkers, not just little learners waiting to be filled up.
Learning happens through group projects, often sparked by what kids are into at that moment.
There are a lot of paintings, buildings, and natural materials around.
Teachers are more like teammates, not bosses.
Great for parents who want their kids to express themselves and learn by doing cool, creative stuff.
You’ll find some childcares in Sherman Oaks that use the Reggio Emilia Approach, great for kids who love to imagine, build, and share.
Waldorf Education: A Slower, Rhythmic Way of Learning
Waldorf schools take things slow. It’s less about early academics and more about giving kids time to grow their imagination and creativity.
Think storytelling, music, crafts, fewer screens, and more hands-on.
Letters and numbers come later, not pushed early.
Daily and seasonal routines are big here, like small festivals and consistent schedules.
Good for: Families who want a more nature-y, low-tech education.
There are fewer schools in Sherman Oaks with this vibe—lots of heart, rhythm, and play.
HighScope Curriculum: Planning + Doing + Reviewing
HighScope is a bit more structured than the rest. It’s all about kids making plans, doing stuff, and then talking about it afterward to reflect.
The "Plan-Do-Review" method helps kids think things through.
Teachers use real data to guide what kids learn.
Social-emotional learning is a big focus, too.
Best for: Kids who do well with a clear routine and like to feel in control of their actions.
You might find this one in some schools around Sherman Oaks—it builds confidence, big time.
Play-Based Learning: Because Playing Is Learning
If you’ve ever watched a toddler build a block tower or pretend they’re flying a spaceship, you’ve seen learning in action.
Activities are led by kids, and teachers just support and step in as needed.
Helps with problem-solving, being creative, and learning how to work with others.
Less about ABCs and 123s early on, more about being ready to learn in a fun, real-world way.
Awesome for kids who love to move, explore, imagine, and get their hands dirty.
Tons of childcare places in Sherman Oaks use this approach—kids usually leave happy and exhausted (in a good way).
Creative Curriculum: A Bit of Everything
This one mixes structure with flexibility, and honestly, it works well for many families.
It focuses on key areas like math, reading, and science, but it also lets kids explore.
Both teachers and kids take the lead during learning.
It works for all kinds of learning styles and backgrounds.
Good for parents who want balance—some academics, some fun, and some freedom.
Lots of preschools in Sherman Oaks use this one. It’s popular because it just... works.
Emergent Curriculum: Learning That Grows with the Kids
Emergent curricula change depending on what kids are curious about at the moment. So no two days (or years) are ever quite the same.
Teachers watch what sparks kids’ interests and build lessons around that.
The schedule stays flexible to allow for real-time learning.
Super strong focus on creativity and keeping kids engaged.
Works well for families who want learning to feel natural, spontaneous, and unique for their kids.
Some centers in Sherman Oaks lean this way—great for keeping things fresh and fun.
What to Look for in a Preschool in Sherman Oaks
When evaluating childcare or preschool in Sherman Oaks, keep the following in mind:
Teaching Style: Does it fit your child’s personality and needs?
Class Size: Smaller groups usually mean more one-on-one time.
Teacher Experience: Training and patience go a long way.
Clean + Safe Space: Super important.
Parent Involvement: You’ll want to be part of the journey, too, right?
Oh—and Don’t Skip Summer Camps
Summer break doesn’t mean kids stop learning. WeVillage runs some super fun and creative summer camps for kids in Sherman Oaks. Great way to keep ‘em active, making friends, and still learning—just in a way that feels like play.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a preschool isn’t always easy, but when you understand the different styles out there, it gets way easier to figure out what feels right for your child.
Some kids do great in structured places; others shine in open-ended, creative classrooms. Luckily, Sherman Oaks has options—whether you want something academic, playful, or a little of both.
Visit a few places, ask questions, watch the teachers in action... trust your gut. Your kid’s about to start a pretty amazing learning adventure.