"Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning.
But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood." - Fred Rogers |
EXPLORERS
(approximate ages 5-7) The Explorer Studio is a nurturing environment that fosters learning through play. The focus is on cultivating the belief that learning is FUN! The program and approach are designed to inspire curiosity, develop collaborative habits, and build independence. |
Why is play so important?
Play is an integral part of learning in the Explorer Studio. To this end, our youngest Eagles have extended outdoor playtime as well as learning through play while inside. Games, cooking, hands-on learning, creative projects, and experiential learning help maintain a sense of play while learning foundational concepts. Acton Marietta takes inspiration from Maria Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Loose Parts Play in the creation of the Explorer Program's design.
(Click any of the terms to read more about each philosophy.)
Play is an integral part of learning in the Explorer Studio. To this end, our youngest Eagles have extended outdoor playtime as well as learning through play while inside. Games, cooking, hands-on learning, creative projects, and experiential learning help maintain a sense of play while learning foundational concepts. Acton Marietta takes inspiration from Maria Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Loose Parts Play in the creation of the Explorer Program's design.
(Click any of the terms to read more about each philosophy.)
All studio schedules are similar in that the day is broken into independent work cycles, collaborative work or play cycles, free time, and community building activities.
Sample 2020-21 Explorer Schedule (Monday - Thursday)
8:00 Arrival, Open Play 8:30 Morning Circle, Mindfulness 9:00 Read Aloud, Goal-setting 9:30 Play to Learn 1 (Math & Literacy) 10:30 Morning Outdoor Play 11:15 Play to Learn 2 (Math & Literacy) 12:15 Lunch 12:45 Quest 1:45 Afternoon Outdoor Play 2:45 Relax or Read 3;10 Studio Maintenance 3:20 Closing Circle |
Friday Schedules are flexible and created weekly, adding in the following weekly activities:
Art, Music, Town Meeting, Chef for a Day, Monthly Celebrations, and more.
Art, Music, Town Meeting, Chef for a Day, Monthly Celebrations, and more.