Our Willow room is filled with energy, exploration and excitement. For some of the children, the Willow year is their first school experience while others were Acorns the prior year. Children in this group attend either 3, 4 or 5 days depending on age and family needs. In the Willow room, lessons are planned along thematic units developed from the interests of the children. Children's knowledge is increased through hands-on projects, while fundamental pre-reading and pre-math concepts are integrated. Each child keeps a journal with drawings and the child's words carefully transcribed. Through play, active inquiry and teacher-initiated activities, children develop self-esteem while gaining important social, cognitive and physical skills.