METHODOLOGY
INTEGRATED CURRICULUM
Our teaching-learning concept is based on an Integrated Curriculum, placing emphasis on the harmonious development of children in every aspect.
Our Integrated Curriculum approach is supported by both Lev Vigostsky’s constructivist view and Howard Gardner’s The Theory of Multiple Intelligences.
A CONSTRUCTIVIST PARADIGM:
Children manage, construct and are actively involved in their learning process. On the basis of children’s interests, needs and prior knowledge, learning experiences are created which are meaningful to them. Therefore, in a Happy Day classroom:
· Children are stimulated by asking them questions that have no pre-defined answers.
· Children’s creativity and ability to solve problems are reinforced.
· Learning goals are tailored to meet children’s individual pace.
· Children are encouraged to experience for themselves.
· Children are given freedom of choice and expression.
THE THEORY OF MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES:
Children possess different kinds of intelligences that can be developed and combined: linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal and intrapersonal. Every child has strengths in each of these intelligences. Therefore, in Happy Day:
· Children are considered above all as holistic beings.
· Each member of the teaching staff takes on the role of enabler of multiple intelligences.
· Diversity is respected. It is borne in mind at all times that individuals differ in the way their intelligences are combined, and this is considered a contribution for every player in the teaching-learning process.
· Strengths of each individual child are encouraged and their developing intelligences are reinforced.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Our methodology is based on exploration and play, always bearing in mind the importance that they are accompanied by strong and positive emotional bonds.
Our teachers play a reflexive, dynamic and analytic role in the teaching practice by taking into account the particular characteristics, needs, experiences and needs of children. They guide and observe the discovery process of children and act as role models. In addition, teachers are in charge of promoting an enriched, encouraging and healthy interaction in the classroom. They respect the individual pace of each child and offer a personalized attention.
Our children actively participate in their own learning process. They are offered opportunities to solve problems, choose activities and the way to perform them, choose materials, and express their ideas and feelings. They constantly experience music, and body, art, and linguistic communication, as well as sensory stimulation and play to their full extent.
We want children to live experiences that enable them to develop in a holistic manner; to learn the value of friendship and the foundations of empathy and respect for others; to strengthen their skills and grow their creativity to their fullest potential.
ADDITIONAL VALUE
AN OPEN-DOOR POLICY
In our Preschool, we maintain and open-door policy for parents. Therefore, parents are welcome to visit our Preschool at any time, without previous notice. Families can have access to and participate in a number of activities and watch their children “in action”.
LEARNING ENGLISH
We incorporate English in a natural and intensive way in our environment so that children may strengthen their vocabulary, comprehension and phonetic flexibility. English is constantly promoted through games, songs, dances, instructions, questions and answers.
MUSIC
Children enjoy and appreciate several musical styles, expand their repertoire with songs, vocalize and experiment with percussion instruments. They learn how to play melodies with metallophones and sight singing through the Chilean method “Music in Colors”.
SUNSHINE CIRCLES
Our staff has been trained in Sunshine Circles – an approach created by Theraplay, which has been adapted to work with children in a learning environment. This approach is part of our curriculum and provides an effective and unique means to foster emotional wellbeing and teach social skills.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
At Happy Day Preschool, all children participate in sensory-motor stimulation activities for preventive purposes, which are included in our weekly planning. A specially-equipped gym is available for these purposes.
In our Preschool, we maintain and open-door policy for parents. Therefore, parents are welcome to visit our Preschool at any time, without previous notice. Families can have access to and participate in a number of activities and watch their children “in action”.
We incorporate English in a natural and intensive way in our environment so that children may strengthen their vocabulary, comprehension and phonetic flexibility. English is constantly promoted through games, songs, dances, instructions, questions and answers.
Children enjoy and appreciate several musical styles, expand their repertoire with songs, vocalize and experiment with percussion instruments. They learn how to play melodies with metallophones and sight singing through the Chilean method “Music in Colors”.
Our staff has been trained in Sunshine Circles – an approach created by Theraplay, which has been adapted to work with children in a learning environment. This approach is part of our curriculum and provides an effective and unique means to foster emotional wellbeing and teach social skills.
At Happy Day Preschool, all children participate in sensory-motor stimulation activities for preventive purposes, which are included in our weekly planning. A specially-equipped gym is available for these purposes.