Description: A Child-Centered Programartwork at Bernie's Place
Through small groups, a low staff-child ratio, and dedicated teachers, we get to know the children in our care. We believe in meeting children's needs, rather than merely fitting them into our program. The foundation of Bernie's program is based on the personal relationship between teacher and child. As friends, parent figures, playmates and models, we become an important part of each child's life. Each child becomes an important part of our lives as well.
Developmentally Appropriate Education
We believe children learn by doing. By carefully preparing materials and the surroundings, our teachers use the natural curiosity and energy of a child's own desire to explore. Our teachers plan both small group and free-choice activities designed to meet the individual needs, interests, and learning styles of young children. Our priority is the healthy development of the whole child; physical, social, emotional and cognitive, rather than accelerated acquistion of academic skills. In our experience, emphasizing the former promotes the latter.
A Safe, Healthy and Stimulating Environment
Bernie's Place is located in a large, converted home with two floors and outdoor playground. This provides a wide variety of supportive and challenging environments: wood working, dramatic play, block building, fine motor center, books, games, puzzles, art with a variety of media, indoor and outdoor play and climbing spaces. Our space accommodates active and quiet play as well as large group and individual encounters. Moreover, we provide nutritious, home-cooked vegetarian meals and many opportunities to learn and practice personal hygiene and safety.
4K Program
Bernie's Place is a Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) site that will have a 4-year-old kindergarten program beginning on September 1, 2011. Participation in this 4K program does not change our learning philosophy. To enroll, please refer to information provided on the MMSD web site.
Where possible, ChildcareCenter provides inspection reports as a service to families. This information is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed. We encourage families to contact the daycare provider directly with any questions or concerns, as the provider may have already addressed some or all issues. Reports can also be verified with your local daycare licensing office.
| Violation Date | Rule Number | Rule Summary |
|---|---|---|
| 2025-06-11 | See Violations below | Licensing |
| 2025-06-11 | The outdoor play space did not have 9 inches of energy-absorbing material under the climbing dome. | Violation |
| Description: 251.06(11)(b)5. — Outdoor Play Space - Energy-Absorbing Surfaces | ||
| 2025-06-11 | Prescription medication was not in the original container or labeled with the child's name, dosage and directions for administration. | Violation |
| Description: 251.07(6)(f)1.b. — Medication Administration - Containers & Labeling | ||
| 2024-11-14 | No Violations found *** | Licensing |
| 2024-03-20 | No Violations found *** | Licensing |
| 2024-02-21 | No Violations found *** | Licensing |
If you are a provider and you believe any information is incorrect, please contact us. We will research your concern and make corrections accordingly.
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