Spark Studio
Spark Studio is a place where our youngest learners (ages 4-6) come together to explore the world around them. In Spark Studio play is positioned as a subject just as important as reading and math. A focus on playful learning results in increased confidence, emotional intelligence, social skills, and independence. A science-based process complimented by Montessori manipulatives guide our approach to math and reading instruction.
Daily Schedule:
8:30 AM Arrival
8:45 AM Morning Circle
9:00 AM Montessori Work Cycle
11:00 AM Project Time
12:00 PM Lunch
12:30 PM Outdoor Play
2:30 PM Afternoon Work Cycle
3:00 PM Studio Maintenance
3:15 PM Close
3:30 PM Dismissal
What is included in each time block?
Morning Circle and Closing Circle: Whole class discussions and Community meetings.
Montessori Work Cycle: Individual and small group work in math, reading, writing, science, and practical life using Montessori materials.
Outdoor Play: Loose parts play. Nature play. Cooperative games and investigations.
Project Time: Visual arts, dramatic arts, musical arts with a focus on facilitating divergent thinking.
Meet the Guides:
What Makes Spark Studio Special:
Time Outdoors: Spark learners spend 50% of their week playing outside in rain or shine. This time for unstructured play is crucial for connecting with nature, getting exercise, building muscles, improving mood, developing social-emotional skills, and building community by working and playing together.
Learner-led projects: Project time in Spark Studio puts into action our belief that even our youngest learners have ideas that are valuable, viable, and visionary. Guides employ a Reggio-Emilia inspired approach to following the interests of the learners creating space to explore their world and themselves.
Learner-Driven Goal Setting: Even our youngest learners are setting their own goals, and we help them break them down into manageable chunks. In defining their own learning goals, children become more invested in their learning—and thus learn more.
Mixed Age Learning: Life is mixed age and so are we. We learn best in community with others, regardless of age. Leadership opportunities abound in Spark Studio: All learners are responsible for helping each other follow a schedule and help each other manage their time, and teach each other new concepts and procedures. The goal is to have the learners run the studio. Yes, that's possible, even for this age group!