about big oak
Our mission & vision:
To provide high-quality child care that is child-centered with play-based learning experiences for young children in a safe and nurturing environment.
Big Oak will differentiate itself in the Madison area with high-quality early childhood education. Big Oak will be recognized as a great place to work and known as a committed learning community. Our children will have had a learning experience that continues to give beyond the Big Oak years.
Philosophy Statement
Big Oak recognizes the importance of play in the learning process for young children. Play is the basis for learning in our programs. Big Oak works to empower children, promote individuality, and develop strong partnerships with families while creating an environment that helps young children attain physical, cognitive, social, and emotional achievements, preparing them for the next step in life.
Each child brings to Big Oak a history of life experience and cultural heritage. Partnerships between families and the Center are essential to the growth and development of the individual child. We strive to create and promote these strong partnerships with families and create a sense of community that is thoughtful, warm and compassionate.
OUR VALUES
Child centeredness. Big Oak teachers facilitate each child’s development based on the child’s interests and individuality, helping them learn about themselves and the world.
Community. Big Oak provides high-quality childcare in a neighborhood setting and fosters a sense of community amongst families.
Health and well-being. Big Oak promotes healthy lifestyles through nutritious meals and active programs. Big Oak also strives to teach and embody environmental stewardship.
Openness and acceptance. Big Oak is open and accepting of all children and families. We cultivate an expectation of respect for all children, families and staff.
Play. Big Oak believes that play offers rich experiences and opportunities for staff to nurture each child’s cognitive, physical, social and emotional development.
Partnerships with families. Big Oak is committed to working collaboratively with families to promote each child’s success and offer open lines of communication.
Quality staff. Big Oak recognizes the importance of quality staff in all areas, and strives to recruit and retain highly qualified and skilled educators.
Financial Stewardship. Big Oak recognizes that good financial management is critical to the sustainability of the organization and its ability to live up to all its values.