We understand that the parents and/or guardians of the children at Hillcrest Kids have a keen interest in the values, purposes and philosophies that govern our programs. In this section, you will find our Mission Statement, Philosophy, Approach to Education, Philosophy of Discipline, and an explanation of our Christian foundation.
Hillcrest Kids Mission Statement
Hillcrest Kids Early Learning is an outreach ministry, called by God, to serve and care for families with children ages one year through fifth grade, within Whatcom and Skagit counties.
Our Philosophy
It is our purpose to foster the growth and development of the whole child: spiritual, cognitive, physical, emotional and social in an atmosphere of God’s great love. We will provide a variety of experiences for children that will arouse their curiosity to learn more about themselves, others, the world around them, and the God of heaven and earth who loves them.
Our Approach to Education
We believe it is in an atmosphere of relational warmth and security that children are free to grow and learn. Experienced and dedicated teachers supply abundant opportunities to touch, taste, feel, see and hear the world and it’s wonders.
Our Director is ECE certified. Our Program Coordinators and our teachers continue to train in Early Childhood Education. All staff meet the state requirement of the S.T.A.R.S. Program.
Each teacher, morning and afternoon, for ages two and a half to five years old, plan a weekly theme. We explore everything from what makes sticky “sticky”, to the seasons, special holidays and the sights and sounds of our world. Special guests are brought in for such subjects as community emergency services, water safety and small farm animals. When possible, field trips to nearby parks and south-side businesses are arranged.
Teachers in our toddler (one to two and a half years) classrooms understand the importance of early bonding and also plan weekly plans that involve a theme or a change to the environment to stimulate the senses. Age appropriate activities are planned for their early learning and development.
Our Philosophy of Discipline
At Hillcrest Kids, we use Love & Logic as a discipline model. We believe that discipline should be remedial rather than punitive. It is based on an understanding of the individual child’s needs and stage of development. We pray with kids and ask Jesus to help them make wise choices and practice self-control. Discipline includes redirection, natural consequences, brief “time out”, loss of privileges, longer “time outs” and if needed, an office visit, parent consultation or removal from the program for a period of time.
Corporal punishment and humiliation or frightening punishment shall not be administered.
Hillcrest Kids staff are required by Washington State Law (RCW 26.44.030) to report suspected incidents of abuse and neglect.
Our Christian Worldview
Hillcrest Kids is a Christian organization. We exclude no one on the basis of creed or religion. We do believe in the historic Christian worldview as expressed in the Apostle’s Creed.
Our beliefs are deeply held and influence our goals and hopes as we work with your children. Singing grace before meals, reading Bible stories in the classroom and celebrating the birth of Jesus during Christmas are just a few of the ways these beliefs are incorporated in classroom life. While we do not belittle the beliefs of others or indoctrinate into any sect or institution, we do freely share our hope in our Lord Jesus Christ and our trust in Him.