Our Practices

These are the various educational methods we implement at our daycare. We do not exclusively rely on a single method; instead, we draw from each of them. This allows us to create a flexible and adaptive learning environment that best serves the developmental and educational needs of our students.

The Montessori approach is an educational philosophy and method developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century. It is characterized by a child-centered and holistic approach to education that emphasizes the natural development of children in a prepared environment. The curriculum is often divided into five core areas or "areas of learning." These areas are designed to provide a well-rounded educational experience for children. 

The five primary areas in the Montessori curriculum are:

•  Practical Life: Practical life activities are designed to help children develop essential life skills and promote independence. These activities include tasks such as pouring, spooning, sweeping, polishing, and dressing. Practical life exercises also help children develop fine and gross motor skills, concentration, and an understanding of order and sequence. Some examples are, Children learn how to tie their shoes, put on their coats, prepare their own snacks and drinks, go to the bathroom independently and clean up after themselves.  
•  Sensorial: The sensorial area focuses on the development of the child's senses. Montessori materials in this area are designed to refine the child's sensory perceptions, such as touch, taste, smell, sound, and sight. For example, a child studying about fall may gather leaves and feel how brittle they are.  
•   Mathematics: The mathematics area introduces children to mathematical concepts and operations in a hands-on, concrete manner. These materials help children understand number concepts, place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.  
•  Cultural Studies: The cultural studies area encompasses various subjects, including geography, history, science, art, and music. Montessori materials and activities in this area expose children to the world around them, foster an appreciation for diverse cultures, and stimulate their curiosity about the natural and human-made world.  

7 concepts of Montessori Education that we have adopted at Aspire ECDC:

1. Play is work 

• Playing is the ultimate way of learning and children have a natural desire for knowledge that should be supported through the right tools. 
• “Play is the work of the child.” 

2. A prepared environment 

• A prepared environment is essential. 
•  It should be an environment where children can move freely and act independently. 

3. Independence 

• Education leads to independence. It encourages exploration and teaches children to take responsibility for themselves, their belongings, and their environment.  
• The golden rule of the Montessori approach is: “Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed.” 

4. Hands-on learning 

• Children learn through experience, having the opportunities to explore. 
• Allowing the child to “absorb” new information like a sponge. 

5. Observation 

• There are certain periods – called sensitive periods – when the child is very interested in one kind of activity.  
• By observing the children, we can provide appropriate activities and create an environment that will support the development of the skill they are currently focused on. 

6. Freedom within limits 

• Freedom doesn’t mean children can do whatever they want. It means we give them the opportunity to choose freely from the options we approved and that are good for them.  

7. Respect 

• The Montessori method is about mutual respect between the child and the teacher. 
• It also means that we understand that each child is a unique individual with his or her own needs, capabilities, and way of learning.  

The HighScope Curriculum is an approach to early childhood education that is based on the principles of active learning and child-centered education. It was developed in the 1960s by Dr. David P. Weikart and his colleagues. In HighScope programs, a mutual give-and-take relationship exists in which adults share control with the children; focusing on their strengths, forming genuine relationships with them, supporting their play ideas, and helping them resolve conflicts. Adults participate as partners in children’s activities rather than as supervisors or managers. They respect children and their choices, and encourage initiative, independence, and creativity. 

The HighScope approach emphasizes the following key principles and features:    

• Active Learning: HighScope places a strong emphasis on active, hands-on learning experiences for young children. Children are encouraged to explore and interact with their environment, make choices, and engage in activities that interest them. This approach is rooted in the belief that children learn best by doing. 
• Plan-Do-Review Cycle: The "Plan-Do-Review" process is central to the HighScope approach. It involves children making a plan for an activity, carrying out the activity, and then reflecting on their experience. This cycle encourages goal setting, decision-making, and self-assessment. 
• Child-Centered Approach: HighScope is child-centered, meaning that it values and respects the unique interests, needs, and abilities of each child. Teachers and caregivers use this information to plan activities and experiences. 
• Structured Curriculum: HighScope provides a structured curriculum that includes specific content areas such as literacy, math, science, social studies, and the arts. The curriculum is designed to align with the developmental needs of children. 
• Adult-Child Interaction: Adults (teachers, caregivers, parents) play an active role in children's learning by engaging in meaningful interactions with them. They ask open-ended questions, offer support, and encourage exploration. They engage in a process called "scaffolding" to help children develop their skills and knowledge. 
• Conflict Resolution: HighScope emphasizes teaching children conflict resolution and problem-solving skills. This helps children develop social and emotional competence. 
• Assessment: Assessment in HighScope is ongoing and child focused. Observations and documentation of children's activities and behaviors are used to track their progress and plan future learning experiences. 
• Curriculum Content Areas: The HighScope curriculum is divided into eight content areas: approaches to learning, social and emotional development, physical development and health, language, literacy, mathematics, science and technology, social studies, and the arts. 
• Play-Based Learning: Play is a central component of the HighScope approach. Play-based activities and materials are used to create meaningful learning experiences. 
• Parent and Family Involvement: HighScope encourages the active involvement of parents and families in their children's education. They are seen as partners in the learning process. 

 4 practices of HighScope education that we have adopted: 

1.  Plan-Do-Review Cycle:  

• The Plan-Do-Review process is central to the HighScope approach. It involves children making a plan for an activity, carrying out the activity, and then reflecting on their experience. This cycle encourages goal setting, decision-making, and self-assessment. 

2.  Small Group Time: 

• Small Group Time is a structured component of the daily schedule that focuses on intentional teaching and adult-guided activities within a smaller group of children. During Small Group Time, teachers create a more targeted and interactive learning environment, allowing for individualized instruction and engagement. 

3.  Large Group Time: 

• Large group time builds a sense of community where children and adults come together for movement and music activities, storytelling, and other shared experiences. Children have many opportunities to make choices and play the role of leader. 

4.  Transition Time: 

• Effective transition times in HighScope contribute to a positive and organized learning environment. By incorporating strategies that promote predictability, independence, and engagement, educators can create a smooth and enjoyable transition experience for children throughout the day.