“It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them.”
As members of the co-op, you and your child will share a unique experience. This will include learning about and appreciating new friends, the power of teamwork, and identifying and voicing your feelings in a group environment. These are vital skills that will carry on long after your child has left our program. At their young age the distinction between work and play need not be made, therefore, our program is designed to make education fun!
Our program is play-based. The Co-op does not emphasize academic performance, although it does aim at providing necessary experiences which contribute toward appropriate cognitive development. Research suggests that play-based learning offers more long-term performance benefits than strict academics at this age.
We want to encourage a sense of confidence in the child so that they feel worthy and respected. Children are to receive realistic feedback about their actions so they may learn how to productively relate to others. Each child will be encouraged to use their own resources in both problem solving and in seeking out stimulating experiences. The working parents will help facilitate learning, assisting the child when it is necessary, and defining limits as the child grows into developing inner controls.
EXPLORATION
Our children learn through self-directed and inspired exploration. We layer planned projects and themes with a focus on inclusivity and social justice.
INSPIRATION
We educate by inspiring students to become interested in the diverse world around them, using one weekly theme at a time, one playful day at a time.
COMMUNICATION
Between the ages of 3 and 4, language acquisition happens at an astonishing pace, so our children are encouraged to express themselves verbally, as well as through art and play.