Emergent Curriculum
Pre-school students continue with critical thinking and experimenting to explore their world. Their play lays the foundation for “academic learning”. Our pre-schoolers are challenged to think critically as they learn to distinguish objects as well as make connections between different things and ideas. They learn to employ language to express their thoughts and feelings as precisely and eloquently as possible. In participating in cooperative play experiences, pre-school students develop socially acceptable behavior and positive social relationships. In addition, they are able to develop and refine gross and fine motor skills, perceptual awareness, and health practices.
Project Based Approach
We take a project-based approach to education by age appropriate curriculum that is based on ideas, interests and questions expressed by each student. Project-based group activities allow for opportunity for open discussion, cooperation and in the decision-making process with both the teacher and other students. Lesson plans for pre-school classrooms are prepared weekly and are theme- and project-based. Classrooms are organized into activity centers: art, music, reading, dramatic play, blocks, manipulatives, sand/water and science. Computers are also stationed in each classroom (three year olds and up) to facilitate and filter early exposure to computer technology.
The Role of a Teacher
The teacher is viewed as a partner in learning, with the children. By listening, observing and “documenting children’s work, the teacher is equipped to guide children’s learning experiences, and “co-construct” knowledge.