Our Pre-School Curriculum:
Dr. Montessori observed that children pass through definite periods of sensitivity for acquiring knowledge and skills. The classroom will incorporate many materials and activities in order to give children the maximum growth opportunities during these periods. The classrooms at Four Seasons are organized to facilitate learning in the following areas :
Practical Life:
The Practical Life exercises relate directly to daily living, they are activities the child observes being carried out everyday in the world around them. While learning self care skills and how to interact successfully in the world they gain independence, confidence and respect for their surroundings. By manipulating materials they also develop fine motor control that is essential for future coordination and fine motor development. Children will learn organization, sequencing, respect of materials and others as well as the development of concentration through Practical Life activities.
Sensorial - Exploring the World:
This group of activities helps in refining the child's senses. Your child will discover how to pair and eventually grade materials according to color, taste, smell, size, weight, shape and sound. These skills are the building blocks for organization and problem solving abilities.
Language - From Spoken to Reading and Writing:
Dr. Montessori discovered that the child is sound conscious well before the age of three. At Four Seasons we use sound games and language arts activities to enable the child to learn the phonetic sounds of the English language. They will also be exposed both formally and informally to other languages. We use both phonetic and whole language learning in our classrooms. The next step in language development will be the ability to read and write and then to further develop and expand these skills.
Mathematics - From Concrete to Abstract:
The young child loves to count and does so as a rhythm. Your child will be introduced to the quantity that is associated with each number. Once the child is comfortable with the numbers 1 - 10, the Decimal System will be introduced and the learning of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division begins. The Montessori Mathematics material are very extensive, always beginning with the concrete and moving into the abstract, allowing the child continual challenge and growth in the area.
Geography and Culture:
Geography is an integral part of the curriculum. Dr. Montessori believed that the best way to introduce a concept was by first looking at the whole and then breaking it down. The globe will be presented, then the land and water forms, followed by the continents and individual countries. Customs, language, music, art, people, animals, flora and fauna, and climate will be explored as part of the classroom geography work.
Science:
Science is introduced through observation, experimentation and exploration of materials. The Montessori Directress will take the lead from the children as to which areas of science are of the most interest. The curriculum will then be designed to fill this interest and excite the children in the area of scientific exploration.
Music:
Music is a vital part of the classroom environment. Circle time is often used for songs and music. Musical instruments are available for the children in the class and are used to teach songs, rhythm, listening skills and a love of music. Classical and World Music are played in the classroom to bring a variety of instruments, composers and style to the child's awareness. Local musicians are also involved in our program in presenting and teaching music.
Art:
At Four Seasons we believe that by providing a wide variety of experience and exposure to art that our children will develop a life long love of art and that creative development will flourish. Art materials are always available in the classroom, and children will be provided with a variety of mediums. The children will learn about a variety of artists, art periods, and styles. Special activities and local involvement will help to create a love of art in your child
Physical Activity:
The children are able to develop gross motor skills and fine motor control during playtime and outdoor recreation in the outdoor playground and on field trips. At Four Seasons we also strive to offer a variety of movement styles, including several genres of dance, yoga and sports. Social interactions and friendships will be strengthened by these shared activities.
Enrichment:
All of our programs will experience enrichment activities. It is the aim of the school to offer at least one enrichment opportunity a month. The types will very greatly but we attempt to offer student a wide variety of dance, drama, music, art, cooking, pottery, field trips, woodworking and language experiences. Our activities are planned for the school at large and our schedule is dependent of the professional leading the class, therefore children who are enrolled full time will receive more opportunities for exposure.