CURRICULUM
We will offer a unique, inclusive program based on Developmentally Appropriate Practices and curriculum standards. Our foundation will be play-based learning, focusing on play as the primary avenue for instruction and supporting children in learning academic and life skills through play. This approach also holds the relationships among peers as well as between child and teacher as central to learning.
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Supporting philosophies will include Reggio Emilia and Waldorf. The Reggio philosophy encourages children to explore, discover and create. Children will foster their curiosity and knowledge through the natural world around them. It places an emphasis on children as strong, capable individuals. The Waldorf philosophy focuses on enhancing a child’s sense of their connection to the world. It also encourages learning through creativity and imagination.
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Each of these philosophies supports children in their social and emotional development and self-regulation. Research continues to show that time spent in outdoor play, child-lead play, and imaginative play is crucial for healthy development. Space to Thrive will place a special emphasis on communication, self-expression, problem solving and social and emotional skill building.
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Our program currently employs educators who have a variety of educational backgrounds and trainings, and by working collaboratively across sites, classrooms, and groups, we are able to weave together the best of each pedagogy. Each classroom will have a lead teacher who is specially trained on the Maine Learning and Development Standards (MELDS).
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As a catalyst for learning, educators incorporate meaningful materials in the classroom, viewing the environment as a third teacher. The environment plays a vital role in our learning process. Our space is carefully designed to encourage children’s creative ongoing experimentation.
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Our program will strive to be as environmentally friendly as possible, as we are invested in the future of all children. Recycled materials and natural features serve as building blocks during loose parts play. Each child will have a hand towel in their classroom to use to dry their hands instead of one time use paper towels. All of our utensils and dishware will be reusable. In the designing of our building, we have worked hard to build an energy-efficient space and will be installing heat pumps instead of using fossil fuels. Staff training will also have an eye on sustainability ranging from cloth diapering practices to composting and recycling.
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