About Us
Curriculum
Nature and Play Based- We believe in learning through nature. All subjects can be taught and experienced simply by going outside, and what better place to learn outdoors than in beautiful Santa Barbara.
We believe that children learn best through play and all academics can be embedded into those activities. We follow a monthly curriculum based on monthly themes. Each teacher then carefully plans their projects and activities based on their groups development and interests. All our teaching is informed by our bi-yearly assessments (DRDP's and ASQ's), conferences with families, and observations. We strongly believe that being able to be self-regulated and co-regulate with each other is the first step to success in academics . Our emphasis in social emotional skills such as problem solving, learning to self-advocate, and conflict resolution are a constant in everything we do.
We believe children learn at their own pace. We offer materials and tools to allow them to explore, leading to self-directed education experiences and a love for learning!
Potty Learning- Children do not need to be proficient in using the potty when they enter our school, we are happy to help them at their own pace so they can feel successful and build healthy habits.
Pre-K Academics- We have consulted with elementary teachers to design a program that aligns with kindergarten expectations.
CLASSES AND SPANISH CURRICULUM
A variety of classes will be offered throughout the year. Some led by our staff, and some by volunteer parents or grandparents! Classes are included in the curriculum at no extra cost to parents.
Cooking * Social skills * Spanish * Dance/Music * Science * Gardening
Spanish Inclusion Program- In the 2022/2023 school year we have added Spanish to all of our daily activities. All classroom signs and labels are in Spanish and English, books are offered in both languages, music is offered in both languages, and we have two dedicated teachers speaking Spanish all day to all children in an effort to teach English and Spanish, When we have students with other primary or secondary languages, we love to highlight those languages as well. We fundamentally believe in the power of culture and community, and we want to make space for all!
Food Program
We know how hard it is to pack nutritious lunches for our kids, so we have a chef on staff that creates healthy meals for morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack, all included in the tuition.
Besides this being helpful for parents, we also believes it creates opportunities to try new foods, to help grow and prepare it, and to develop independence skills such as serving food to themselves with tongs, helping to pass out plates or utensils, and cleaning up after themselves.
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