School Philosophy
HCNS has been introducing Healdsburg's youngest students and their families to the joys of community and a lively school experience since 1964.
While the children are our reason for coming together, HCNS is really about families. The collective gives parents the opportunity to share their child's wonder and growth at the beginning of a new phase of their lives. We support families by sharing important child development phases and positive parenting strategies during the weekly parent participation day.
Play with Purpose
We believe in the developmental approach. We let children learn at their own pace using age-appropriate activities. We create an enriched environment of stimulating and challenging materials, and within this environment, children have the opportunity to expand and develop their own interests and imagination. This freedom enables the child to gain self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-control.
We believe in using positive reinforcement rather than negative statements or punishment. Each child receives highly individualized attention and group support as they learn to communicate and problem-solve with others. This positive reinforcement helps children form a lifelong love of learning.
Parent Cooperative
We believe parents are their children's first and most influential teachers. The school exists to help parents develop their own parenting skills while working with their children. The school and the parents work together in a true cooperative relationship that creates a gentle transition from home to school environment.
Being a member of a cooperative school provides growth and learning opportunities for everyone involved. Parents receive education and training in the fundamentals of child development, including appropriate learning techniques and positive discipline so that they can provide support, focused attention and verbal encouragement to children during classroom hours and at home.
