

First United Methodist Church
Early Childhood Center
Classrooms
ECC strives to offer high quality early educational experiences. The classroom environment is child-centered, with developmentally appropriate daily activities and written curriculum plans following Arkansas Early Learning Standards.
2 Year Old Classrooms
AR Ratio: 1:8
ECC Ratio: 2:8
Developmental focus
Emphasizes language development, gross motor skills (large movements), and fine motor skills (small movements). Fosters independence and creativity through play.
Curriculum approach
Learning occurs through sensory exploration and satisfying social interaction. Teachers provide materials and space for children to explore and play.
Classroom structure
Materials are easily accessible to encourage children to make choices independently. The setup encourages a variety of activities, from quiet time to active and pretend play.
Skills practiced
Uses manipulatives and building blocks to improve fine motor skills and creative expression. Stories, puppets, music, and movement help develop language skills.
Social-emotional learning
Fosters self-discipline, cooperation, curiosity, and independence, often through indoor and outdoor play.
3 Year Old Classrooms
AR Ratio: 1:12
ECC Ratio: 2:12
Developmental focus
Reinforces early learning through activities like listening to stories and dramatic play. Introduces early writing exercises.
Curriculum approach
Children continue to learn through play, art, and music. This is designed to develop concepts and language skills.
Classroom structure
The environment still uses interest areas like dramatic play, art, and blocks, but with a greater emphasis on developing language and problem-solving skills.
Skills practiced
Fine motor skills are further refined through painting, collages, and building with blocks. Writing exercises are introduced to prepare children for letter formation.
Social-emotional learning
Continues to build social skills like cooperation, taking turns, and being patient, with more coaching from teachers.
Pre-K Classrooms (4-5 Year Olds)
Ratio 1:15
ECC Ratio: 2:15
Developmental focus
Develops kindergarten-readiness skills in core academic areas like literacy, math, and science. Focuses on critical thinking and problem-solving.
Curriculum approach
Combines play-based activities with more structured, academic-focused lessons to prepare for kindergarten. Technology tools will be introduced.
Classroom structure
Classrooms become more structured, with dedicated learning centers and activities that build core academic skills.
Skills practiced
A more intentional focus on pre-literacy skills, including early phonics, letter recognition, and reading readiness. Math concepts and early science and social studies are also explored.
Social-emotional learning
Reinforces collaborative learning and problem-solving, setting students up for a successful transition to kindergarten.