Our Play-Based Preschool Philosophy

At Westwood Academy, we believe that learning starts with trust, joy, and curiosity. Our play-based preschool philosophy is rooted in honoring the whole child: their mind, their body, and their unique way of being in the world.

We Believe in…

Building Independence

  • Prepare their own snacks and lunches

  • Take care of their classroom and materials

  • Use the toilet with pride and autonomy

  • Dress themselves, wash their hands, and develop confidence

Kindness & Respect

  • All feelings are valid and welcome

  • Boundaries are taught, practiced, and respected

  • We create safe spaces where LGBTQ+ families and children are fully seen

  • Every child learns to take care of their classroom and their community

Safety & Wellbeing

  • Clean, calm, and sanitary classrooms

  • Body autonomy and consent education

  • A culture of abuse prevention and emotional safety

  • Predictable routines that provide structure and security

Collaborative Community

  • Group activities and helping others

  • Respectful language and kind interactions

  • Sharing family stories, traditions, and photos

  • Family-led celebrations and shared cultural learning

All faiths and cultures are welcome at Westwood Academy.

Curiosity & Exploration

  • Open-ended materials encourage experimentation

  • Outdoor spaces promote movement, imagination, and joy

  • Teachers observe and guide play toward deeper learning

  • Children learn best when they feel safe to explore and take risks

A Philosophy You Can Feel

Our classrooms don’t just reflect these values — they live them. Every interaction, every shelf, every song reflects the principles we believe in.

“We appreciate the balance of a varied curriculum with free play and imagination. Our son is growing intellectually, socially, and emotionally every week.”
— Bree D.
“We love Westwood! Our toddler is excited to go to school every day and has formed strong bonds with her teachers and friends. The staff are kind, professional, and communicative.”
— Zane S.

Ready to see our values in action?

Discover what makes Westwood Academy’s play-based preschool philosophy truly special — for every child, every day.