The Snapdragon classroom encourages self motivation through play that fosters discovery and love of learning. We believe that play is the greatest learning tool, and we encourage children to learn through teacher directed activities as well as independent curriculum choices. Our curriculum encompasses multicultural studies, math, science, art, literacy and kindergarten readiness for those applicable students.
One of the fantastic things about the Snapdragon classroom is that most children spend 2 years in this classroom with the same teachers, as this classroom caters to children ages 3-5 years. When children enter the Snapdragon classroom, they are the youngest in the group and learn many things from their peers throughout the year. The following year, these same children will be the oldest in the group and will be helping to teach and guide the new, younger children. We believe that this dynamic allows children to practice being a follower and a leader and have the best of both worlds. Throughout the day, the Snapdragon teachers support students to develop social, emotional and communication skills. Each week we provide purposeful opportunities that challenge and inspire students in the classroom, on the playground and while immersed in forest exploration.
Outside Time All classrooms spend time outside daily in almost every type of weather. The playground is a place where children can practice safe risk assessment. Learning to maneuver through uneven terrain and climbing are especially important skills that toddlers are driven to practice at this age. For preschool children, learning to swing, walking the balance beam, climbing and getting down from the jungle gym, and obstacle courses are excellent ways for children to enhance their gross motor skills. Teachers are there to facilitate safe climbing on various objects and guide children to climb independently instead of placing them at the top or on the ground.
Teachers mindfully provide personal interactions that model respect, kindness and empathy towards others in the ways they treat the children. Each child is respected as a capable individual with unique interests and development.