Schoolmates is a magically inviting place where children flourish!
Nourishment
Teachers thoughtfully plan the classroom environments based on children’s emerging interests and a deep respect for children’s potential.
Our Schoolmates are able to help themselves and choose many of their own activities and materials, gaining confidence and independence.
The Art of Play
Play is the child’s avenue for learning. They learn through experience and hands on participation as they explore, classify and organize. Through play, they are able to develop social skills such as cooperating, negotiating, making friends, and solving problems.
They learn to ask questions, find answers and express their feelings.
Creative Expression
Teaching children how to express their own knowledge and desires through artwork, conversation, early writing, dramatic play, music, dance, and other outlets.
Recognizing that at the very core of creativity is our desire to express ourselves, Reggio Emilia schools create environments that inspire and support creative thinking and invention.
Natural Setting
Our beautiful natural surroundings enhance our educational framework. Children walk the trails and explore the abundant resources at Incarnation Center, including the lake, pond, farm and Bushy Hill Nature Center.
Exploration, observation and investigation are key components in our learning environment.
The Resilience of Children
Dave Adams, the talented father of 2 children that joined Schoolmates, filmed this in April of 2020. While the world was looking very different, we felt it was important to show how the resilience of young children gave all of us hope for a brighter future. We wanted to show how important aspects of childhood remained the same even through physical barriers like masks and plexiglass. The songs, smiles, joy, and love of nature & friends remained part of each day as we navigated uncharted waters. We love this “time stamp” that reminds us of how strong we all are and what is most important in life.
