Eliot Pearson Children's School

Teachers in our Preschool classrooms make sure children and families feel comfortable and knowledgeable about classroom routines, expectations, and range of activities. Children can explore ideas and materials as they engage in a variety of activities. They are encouraged to use tools safely and productively, and to communicate their thoughts and needs to teachers and other children. Teachers support children in establishing positive and enjoyable relationships with one another. They assist children in their attempts to initiate play, cooperate with others, and negotiate conflicts successfully. Classroom experiences promote and integrate pre-literacy and math skills, science and social studies thinking, art appreciation and creativity, and physical development. Emphasis is placed on communication of ideas in a group, problem-solving, and individualized and collaborative learning.

The K-1 classroom seeks to establish a community in which mutual respect for one another’s backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and concerns are a priority. The cooperative learning atmosphere enables the children to productively work and play together. The curriculum integrates literacy, mathematics, science thinking, social sciences, and the arts. The rhythm of each day includes large group gatherings, small study groups, independent work periods, outdoor play, and a significant block of time during which children may pursue their own interests and develop friendships. Within the context of our developmental classrooms, each child is encouraged to experience the joy of productivity, creativity, mastery, friendship, and enhanced self-esteem.