Philosophy -

Social Constructivism

"Too often we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve."

- Roger Lewin

Our methods are rooted in the idea of constructivism. This is a learning process which allows a child to experience the environment first-hand, giving them a model of reliable, trust-worthy knowledge. The child is required to act upon the environment to both acquire and test new knowledge. We emphasize collaboration, among children, teachers, parents, and in the larger community.

Constructivism suggests that children design and construct their own experiences. With a teacher’s help, they are encouraged to make profound discoveries.  We believe knowledge structures are most effective when built by children themselves.

Social refers to an innate ability of children to work together, to explore, make hypotheses, and experiment with their world. Teachers reinforce these processes in small groups that are a common feature in our classrooms.  

Our program introduces Tools of Mind needed for later cognitive flexibility, critical thinking, language use, and creative problem solving.  We emphasize play as the laboratory of learning and communication. Our teaching looks at play in the context of an enhanced view of the abilities of children. Through play children explore developmental themes leading to physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Our approach is influenced by educational pioneers such as Jean Piaget, Heinz Werner, and Lev Vygotsky.  Also, the work of Jerome Bruner and Howard Gardner.  We hold in great regard the lessons of learning through art introduced by the Reggio Emilia tradition in Europe and America.