When I examine myself
and my methods of thought,
I come to the conclusion
that the gift of fantasy
has meant more to me than
any talent for abstract, positive thinking.”
– Albert Einstein
The Morning Garden class (3 and 4 year olds) and Kindergarten class (4 - 6 year olds) are based on the conviction that imitation of what is meaningful and true in life is the most important activity for strengthening and nurturing the young child. These early childhood programs provide a warm homelike atmosphere and an opportunity for children to learn through imitation and activity. Play is a child's real work and way of learning. Fairy tales and other stories, regular creative activities, sharing of tasks, individual activities, and group play are balanced in the rhythm of the day. The rhythm of the week is also carefully planned. There is a certain dependability that the children can rely on knowing that bread baking, for example, occurs each and every Monday and painting each Wednesday.
Morning Garden and Kindergarten is the time for the child to live in his or her imagination. During play time the children become engaged, for instance, in creating houses from cloths and play stands, performing puppet shows and plays with silks and marionettes, and building with simple items such as sticks, stones, and shells. It is also the time to develop social skills with playmates and teachers; the children learn to listen, to share, to help, and to respect each other. Circle time – a time for traditional verses, poems, and beautiful seasonal songs and games, is also a part of the early childhood experience. All circle activities are learned through imitation. Through the rhythm of word, music, and creative movement, we work towards the integration of the whole being of the child, right down to the fingers and toes.
During story time the classic fairy/folk tales and nature stories are told in an artistic way that captivates the children and engages their imaginations. During this time there may be puppet plays or a simple acting out of the story by the children. Outdoor play is an important part of the children's morning. Running, jumping, balancing, swinging and exploring the natural world are valued activities. Our day ends as children say their goodbye verse.
based on the conviction that imitation of what is meaningful and true in life is the most important activity for strengthening and nurturing the young child. These early childhood programs provide a warm homelike atmosphere and an opportunity for children to learn through imitation and activity. Play is a child's real work and way of learning. Fairy tales and other stories, regular creative activities, sharing of tasks, individual activities, and group play are balanced in the rhythm of the day. The rhythm of the week is also carefully planned. There is a certain dependability that the children can rely on knowing that bread baking, for example, occurs each and every Monday and painting each Wednesday.