Our Philosophy

The TOPS Pre-K program supports the development of the whole child and provides opportunities for learning which facilitate each child's cognitive, emotional, social, and motor development.

We believe that children learn best through hands-on play based experiences and exploration. We believe that a secure and nurturing classroom creates a positive learning environment, which will simulate each child's growth and development.

Our Curriculum

The TOPS Pre-K curriculum is coordinated with Madison's K-2 program to better develop skills in reading, writing and mathematics. Our state certified teachers weave literacy skills into our daily routine. We enhance our curriculum using Handwriting Without Tears, Jolly Phonics, and the Second Step social skills program. TOPS follows the guidelines of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, (NAEYC), Creative Curriculum, and the Illinois Early Learning Standards. Developmentally appropriate instruction promotes thinking, speech/language, social/emotional, and large and small motor skills growth. Children engage in hands-on experiences, which enhances their joy of learning. Each child's strengths and abilities are celebrated in an individual portfolio which contains work samples, pictures, and documentation of developmental milestones.