Learn Every Day

At DCDC, we believe play is a child’s work. Our child-centered approach uses Kaplan’s Learn Everyday curriculum, which builds developmentally appropriate learning into every activity. Learn Everyday also aligns with the PA Standards for Early Learning. Click here to learn more about the PA Early Learning Standards.

Key focus areas include:
• Literacy
• Fine & Gross Motor Skills
• Expressive Arts (Art, Drama, Music)
• Outdoor & Sensory Experiences
• Science, Health & Nutrition
• Social Studies
• Cooking & STEM (Preschool)

Teachers support skill-building all day long—through hands-on, engaging play.

Second Step Curriculum

At DCDC, social-emotional learning is a core part of our program. We use the Second Step curriculum to help children develop the skills they need to manage emotions, build positive relationships, and make thoughtful decisions. By incorporating Second Step into our daily routines, classroom activities, and interactions, we are strengthening the implementation of PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) with fidelity. Implementation of Second Step Curriculum and PBIS ensures consistent teaching of social-emotional and behavioral expectations across all classrooms.

The curriculum focuses on key areas essential for social-emotional growth:

• Empathy and Emotion Management – Understanding feelings in themselves and others and learning strategies to manage emotions effectively.

• Problem Solving and Decision Making – Practicing positive ways to handle conflicts and make thoughtful choices.

• Friendship and Cooperation Skills – Building healthy relationships, teamwork, and communication skills.

• Self-Regulation and Focus – Developing attention, impulse control, and the ability to follow directions.

These objectives are embedded throughout daily activities, story times, games, and classroom interactions, allowing teachers to guide children in practicing social-emotional skills in meaningful, real-life situations. By aligning Second Step with PBIS, we create a consistent, supportive, and proactive framework that helps all children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.