Imagine this: A small village nestled among the rolling hills in Spain. Children chase butterflies beneath a sunny sky, and laughter fills the streets. Our kindergarten near me does much more than simply teach ABCs or 123s. Here, young minds are sprouting like wildflowers on a spring day.
You might be wondering how such a charming setting could serve as a springboard for future success. I’ll tell you what. We are a play-based school. You heard me right, play! This isn’t just about crayons or naptime; let’s let kids explore the world through play. Playing is not just about fun. It’s also a way for kids to learn how to solve puzzles, be creative, and work with others.
Take Maria as an example. Maria decided one day that her block toys were magical castles, and they needed to be protected from dragons (a.k.a. her classmates). While it looked chaotic, Maria was actually working with her classmates to create fortresses. Maria, without realizing it, learned to be a leader and cooperate through her play.
Spanish can be a tricky language for young children. We begin bilingual education as early as possible because we understand that language skills can open up doors to new opportunities. There’s nothing better than hearing a 5-year old switch from Spanish into English faster than they can say “ole!”
No joke, we take storytelling very seriously. Storytime is not only about stories of princesses or knights. It’s also an exercise to develop empathy and imagination. Children who create or listen to narratives can step into another person’s shoes, which is a valuable skill for them as they grow into mature adults.
Mother Nature is a great teacher in our outdoor classroom. We let the children get their hands dirty, whether it’s planting seeds in springtime gardening or watching ants move along tiny highways. These experiences are more memorable than any lesson taught by a textbook.
Music! Each morning begins with songs that fill the classroom with joy and sometimes, off-key tones. Music not only entertains, but also boosts memory while teaching rhythm and patient!
Painting outside the lines develops fine motor skills and creative thinking, which will be vital in later life.
You’ll see that in this beautiful Spanish village with its olive groves, there are more than rows and rows of neatly lined up desks. There is a place where curiosity flourishes under sunny skies. And each child has enough room to grow at his or her own pace.
Our kindergarten believes that childhood should be enjoyed, not rushed. Because after all, from tiny acorns come mighty oaks.