THE HIGHLANDS  SEATTLE

Curriculum

 OUR CURRICULUM

We offer a framework within a loving environment that encourages individual choices.

Social Growth

Children are provided with many opportunities to interact with each other. When confl icts arise, children are encouraged to work them out as independently as possible, with direction as needed. The teacher provides activities to learn to work with partners as well as groups. Since we are a small school with just two classrooms, this encourages a close-knit community within the school.

Language

There is a lot of talking in our classrooms! The schedule allows limitless opportunities for oral language development. We sing songs, recite poetry, read big books, discuss ideas, solve problems and constantly encourage verbal interaction. These are all things that encourage verbal development. We even discuss how our friends may be “talking with their bodies”, as far as facial expressions, body language, and hand signs.

Art/Music

Art is available to our students daily, in various ways. Coloring, creation stations, one on one project time, and easel painting are just some of the ways they can express themselves artistically.

Music is a huge part of our school. We use it to calm us during reading time, practice body control and patience, practice rhythms, and so much more! It’s a great group activity. We have a variety of small instruments such as rhythm sticks, maracas, and drums that we occasionally bring out to practice keeping beat with.

Math

We focus on teaching math through concrete experiences with manipulatives. During their time at our school, the children will be exposed to the concepts of pattern, sorting and classifying, estimating and graphing. Literature with mathematical concepts is used frequently.

Science

Hands-on exploration is our focus in science. The setting of our unique school gives us many opportunities to explore and interact with the creatures and wildlife.  The Noble Firs Pre-K science class is taught by our amazing Naturalist. The texture table and water table provide opportunities for additional exploration of scientific and mathematical concepts. Themes throughout the year allow us to dive deeper into the world around us.