OUR PROGRAM

Young children learn through experimenting and play is the tool children use to experiment; to experience is to learn. The Little School offers the child an environment conducive to learning.

The Little School recognizes that every child is unique and offers individualized attention to each child.

The Little School follows a program specifically designed to help the children develop various skills. Although the program is clearly structured and carefully followed by the teachers, it is implemented in a way that gives each child the option of learning his/her own way at his/her own pace.

The program has monthly objectives or themes, and these are divided in weekly sub-objectives. These are achieved in two ways: free play and group activities. The materials, games and play opportunities offered to the children every day are related to the theme of the week. In this way, each child is free to choose what to do, when, where, and how, during free play periods.

 One of the group activities is called "Circle Time". Here, all children get together and their teachers motivate them to direct their activities towards the week's theme. Note that "Circle Time" is a period of inter-communication between children and teachers. The activities to be performed after "Circle Time" are suggested by the teachers and chosen by the children, never imposed on them.

Good communication, reasoning, respect, and understanding are fundamental rules in all activities.

Each program is divided into six major areas:

• Physical Play Area (Physical/Social Play)
• House Area (Role/Social play)
• Blocks' Area (Creative/Cognitive play/Gross motor coordination).
• Arts Area (Creative/Cognitive/Fine coordination)
• Nature Area (Understanding of the natural environment/Respect for living beings)
• Quiet Area (Quiet / Retreat / Cognitive play).

The progress of the child is evaluated regularly and parents are notified of achievements as well as areas that need support at home.

The interest, involvement, and participation of the parents in the process are considered fundamental and irreplaceable. The Little School, in co-ordination with the parents, will attempt to organize activities that will involve parents and staff. These activities intend to be a learning process for both, resulting in greater benefits for the children.