The Step by Step School uses a multi-theory curriculum that encourages developmental growth, supports social-emotional skills, and promotes academic success. Our daycare and afterschool programs are aligned with local elementary schools and New Jersey State Standards.

The Step by Step School curriculum was created to provide students and their individual needs a safe environment where they are able to learn at their own pace. Utilizing this multitude of theories allows teachers to be creative in providing developmentally appropriate multi-sensory tools and strategies in the classroom to support all styles of learning; therefore, allowing children to grow emotionally, physically, and intellectually.

• Handwriting Without Tears (HWT) introduces gripping for our infants and pre-toddlers establishes a proper handwriting foundation for our toddlers, supports the basis for proper handwriting skills for our preschoolers, and enhances proper handwriting skills for our school-aged students. Starting at an early age, our students begin to build essential skills for emergent writing and handwriting success.
• The Clover Model focuses on the social-emotional development of children of all ages and stems from an understanding that a student’s academic success is directly tied to his or her emotional well-being.
• Mississippi Learning Standards describes the first three years of life that have a strong impact on brain development and learning. They are the foundation of healthy development and positive learning outcomes in early years, in preschool, and beyond.
• The Waldorf Philosophy gives students a daily schedule to follow a consistent and creative routine.
• Utilizing The Play-Based Philosophy educators encourage students to learn through play and exploration.
• Encouraging The Cognitive-Based Philosophy supports active exploration giving opportunities to develop a positive self-concept, independency, and self-sufficiency.