Curriculum

Our methodology draws from forward-thinking theories in the fields of education, the arts, and social justice. Our practice is informed by the work of many notable theorists such as Dewey, Bruner, Eisner, Vygotsky, Freire and Gardner. We put these theories into practice through arts-based, emergent curriculum, creating a learning environment that is playful, cooperative, exploratory, integrated and flexible. Our curriculum is guided by a yearly central theme with monthly sub-themes that build throughout the year. Our themes are the common thread that connects our ideas about ourselves and the world we inhabit. It also allows us to take wild rides in our imaginations while still staying tethered to common concepts.Although themes are established, curriculum is not set in stone. We cultivate a culture of Emergent Curriculum. This approach allows us to meet children’s interests that emerge as teachers and children delve into activities and lessons, weaving their shared interests into a fluid, organic exploration of ideas and information. We have four main curricular areas – Visual Art, Music, Library, and Language. Each day, our moon groups participate in lessons and activities infused with storytelling, artmaking, songs, games, movement, observation, and discussions. We design cooperative and independent projects and activities, with room for both structured and free expression experiences.

Sample Day Schedule

8:00 – 9:45

Welcome – Parents drop off (put lunch away, items in cubby, talk to staff if necessary, and say goodbyes); children have a choice of activity.  

9:45 – 10:00

Clean Up, Handwashing, & Snack – healthy snacks include fruit, vegetables, soft pretzels, etc…

10:00 – 10:30

All School Music & Morning Play – Entire school gathers in the Common Room to sing songs; teachers and children perform plays based on Moonstone’s favorite stories  

10:30 – 12:30

Curriculum – 10:30- 12pm New, Blue, Half, & Full Moons have a rotation of 2 out of the 4 following curriculum classes a day: Art, Music, Library, & Language Lunch – (everyone finishes by 1:15)

1:00 – 1:30 – Post lunch free play &  Nap Time Prep for New & Blue Moons

Structured Play – Blue/Half/Full Moons (all non-nappers)

1:30 – 3:30

Chapter Books/Turtle Time/Park – Half Moons, Full Moons and non-nappers visit the park, weather permitting. Upon return Full Moons listen to chapter books & Half Moons listen to picture books for Turtle Time

3:30 – 3:45

Handwashing & Snack – Healthy snacks provided and occasional birthdays celebrated

4:00 – 5:00

Afternoon Curriculum – Children participate in various activities

5:15 – 5:30

Clean Up

5:30 – 6:00

Afternoon Stories in common room or play room Final pick ups – parents can see the person at the front desk for any information