Scribbles

"We are thrilled to be a recipient of this grant as we are committed to enriching our program with the arts. We currently offer a music program so the opportunity to also offer theatre to our students is a welcome addition to our curriculum." co-owner Ann Fecteau says.

The focus of the program is to not only incorporate new creative concepts into existing programs, but also to sustain them. In addition to the theatre experience, as part of the same grant, Scribbles applied for and received funding to provide each child with three books that Jody will share during her visits. Co-owner, Stephanie Haskins adds, "not only will the children get to experience these stories with Jody during her visits, they will also get to take the books home and share them with their families."

This program is scheduled to run for four weeks beginning in mid March and will culminate with a celebration in which the students will perform their favorite stories for parents. Fein will also hold a workshop in May for parents and staff to follow-up on the program and expand on the techniques used during her visits to the classroom. Scribbles Preschool is located in Gray and is in its second year of operation. Co-owner Ann Fecteau has an Education degree from the University of Massachusetts and co-owner Stephanie Haskins holds Physics and Education degrees from the University of Maine.

The school offers two and three day programs for children ages 2 1/2 through 5 and is currently enrolling for Fall 2007. The hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to noon-12 with an extended day option for the MWF class that was put in place to help ease the transition to all day Kindergarten.

Scribbles philosophy is that children from the ages of 2 1/2-5 learn through direct interactive experiences. They learn through play and activities that allow for autonomy, control and as much practice/repetition as is necessary to master skills and develop their own interests. It is important to offer routines, activities and an environment that builds each child's self esteem and creates a positive atmosphere of fun and challenge.

Scribbles will be holding an open house on Wednesday, March 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. for prospective families. For more information about Scribbles Preschool please call Ann or Stephanie at 657-ABCD (657-2223) or e-mail them at scribbles@maine.rr.com.