Specials AT CCEP

Godly Play

Empowering Young Hearts and Minds

Godly Play is a Montessori-based, multisensory, hands-on, imaginative approach to nurturing the spiritual lives of children. It includes three story genres: Sacred Stories, Parables, and Liturgical Action. The curriculum invites students to engage in the stories through wondering and work, with new stories presented each week.

Mason Cruz is the Minister for Children and Youth at Christ Church Christiana Hundred. He graduated from Eastern University with a B.A. in Youth Ministry, with minors in Psychology and Biblical Studies.

Mason has a strong passion for youth and children’s ministry. He has completed training and certification in the Godly Play curriculum, where he gained valuable insights into children's faith development and its significance.

Process Art

Embracing Exploration-Focused Creativity

At our school, we believe the process of creating art is more important than the product. Our art enrichment program is designed to be a relaxing, creative experience where your child is free to explore without step-by-step instructions or examples. There is no right or wrong way to create art; we focus on the experience and the exploration of different techniques, tools, and materials. Each child’s piece is truly unique and original.

Ms. Wilmer, our art teacher, has a deep passion for children and has been part of our school community for four years, with a decade of experience working with kids. Ms. Wilmer loves teaching art because it empowers her to help children become artists, decision-makers, and creators. She is grateful for the opportunity to teach children how to express their creativity through process art activities.

To learn more about process art visit the National Association for Education of Young Children.

Music

Nurturing Musical Skills and Milestones

In each music class, your child will explore a variety of engaging activities designed to nurture their musical curiosity. From singing "Hello" songs to moving freely to the steady beat of a drum, your child will build self-expression, listening skills, and self-control. We'll also play with rhythm instruments like bells, shakers, and drums, and engage in group dances and rhythmic chants. Through repetition and fun, we create a comfortable and joyful environment for your child to learn and grow.

With 28 years of experience teaching music to young children, Melinda Oriani, our Early Childhood Department Head, is a highly respected expert. She's a Core Faculty member with Special Distinction at The Music School of Delaware and is fully trained in Kindermusik and Musikgarten. Her background includes a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance and professional singing with groups like the Houston Grand Opera Chorus.

Spanish

Learning the Joy of Spanish Through Music and Play

A lifelong learner with a passion for language and culture, Chris Devany, or "Mr. Chris," brings a unique blend of experience to our preschool. Born in Wilmington, DE, he earned a degree in Foreign Language and Literature from the University of Delaware, which included a study abroad in Granada, Spain.

Mr. Chris has since taught Spanish, music, and Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art, to children across Delaware, Philadelphia, and California, as well as in Guatemala where he lived for three years.

At our school, Mr. Chris and his drumming dog puppet, Chucho Tambor, make learning Spanish fun! Through songs, games, and movement, they introduce children to basics like greetings, numbers, and colors. The class is designed to create a positive, engaging experience with a new language, using musical instruments, toys, and the Total Physical Response method to keep everyone active and engaged. His classes create a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning.