Aunt Pat's School House introduces new programming
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Brian Biesik, a third degree black belt with Master Gorino's, teaches tae kwon do to students at Aunt Pat's School House, which is one of four special enrichment programs offered. Photo by Joe Eberle Purchase color photos at www.BeeNews.com

Reading, writing, and computers and tae kwon do. Maybe not the traditional saying, but it's a typical day at Aunt Pat's School House.

The day care, for children 6 weeks to 5 years old, offers programs in addition to the usual curriculum, Director Sally Paprocki said.

"We offer a balanced curriculum that simulates emotional and creative development," said Paprocki, who has been the director for seven years.

Classrooms are divided by age and offer age-appropriate programming. At 2 years, the youths are introduced to computers, which is one of four enrichment programs at the school.

Aunt Pat's also offers SNAP (Science and Nature Appreciation Program). SNAP involves art projects, cooking, stories, and songs that involve nature science, with the goal being that children will develop an interest in nature and science.

A Kinderdance program teaches dance, movement and fitness.

Paprocki said a lot of schools offer dance but few offer a look into the world of martial arts. Tae kwon do instruction is provided by Brian Biesik, a third-degree black belt, from Master Gorino's Pil-Sung Tae Kwon-Do. Currently the program is teaching students about "stranger danger" and how to yell when approached by someone they don't know.

"It's a very popular program at our center. The children build confidence, greater self esteem and cooperation with a positive influence," Paprocki said, adding that the parents have to give permission for the dance and tae kwon do programs.

At Aunt Pat's, the children are treated on an individual basis, recognizing at an early age when they need additional help, such as speech.

"We try to have the center based on each individual child," she said. "We have a loving, caring staff who range in age from grandmothers to college students."

Currently, 25 staff members provide care at Aunt Pat's.

During nice weather the children have access to an outdoor, fenced-in playground. A smaller, separate area is designed for the younger students.

There is also an indoor gym, created to develop gross motor skills. A large activity room provides space for special events.

The school is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. It's located at 8620 Transit Road, just north of Klein Road. The center accommodates 80 children, and was opened eight years ago. For information, or to schedule a tour, visit 636-8700. Also, visit www.auntpatsschoolhouse. com.

e-mail: jfinch@beenews.com