- Our Environment
“Our classrooms are created as homes for children. Just like our homes are made to meet our needs, classrooms are designed to meet the needs of children. The comfort and ease we feel at home is what children feel in our classrooms”
Order
in the Environment
Children have a strong sense of order. The order in the environment helps them orient themselves to the world. A seemingly small change in the environment could cause a behavior change. At Da Vinci, consistency is paramount. Everyday everything is tidied up and put back in order so when children come the next day, the work is awaiting them.
The child leads, the adult follows.
We have faith in a child’s intent and ability. We believe in guiding children towards learning instead of directing them to learn. This has proven to increase confidence during and after learning. We feed children’s need to be independent thus increasing their ability to make day to day decisions themselves.
Child Sized child safe. child friendly.
The environment is proportional to children's height and size. Low display shelves allow all material to be within a child’s reach. Child size furniture and material reduce their dependence on the adult. The classroom is divided into work areas where children can work by themselves or in groups. Freedom of movement, freedom of choice and conversations are part of the classroom.
Everything here is with a purpose.
Every material in our environment has a purpose. This ensures that when children spend their time in our classrooms they are working towards goals. Through the materials children develop not only their intellect but their whole personality.
space & support for freedom & Independence
The environment promotes the child's independence in the exploring and learning. A fine balance between freedom and self-discipline allows each child to work with activities that meet his needs.