- Welcome to School—We begin our day by walking together from the drop-off area to the classroom, where children hang up their backpacks and remove their shoes. We then gather on the rug for music and movement to kick off our morning meeting. This special gathering time allows us to welcome each child individually with a fun song, stretch our bodies with a short yoga routine, share growth-mindset affirmations, and review our plans for the day.
- Let’s Get Learning—Following our morning meeting, children enjoy a minimum of one hour of self-directed play. During this time, they may choose from a variety of thoughtfully prepared learning areas, including blocks, dramatic play, art, STEM, sensory activities, loose parts, and cooking or snack preparation. Children are free to decide where to play and how long to remain in each area, allowing them to follow their interests and engage deeply. This is a rich time for social, emotional, and cognitive growth, with the teacher observing, supporting, and gently guiding the organic learning that unfolds. This portion of the day remains flexible and responsive, shaped by the children’s level of engagement.
- Healthy Eating—As free play winds down, a healthy snack is offered to children who are interested. I aim to provide nourishing foods that encourage children to “eat the rainbow.” Children are never forced to eat anything they don’t wish to, but sharing snack time with peers often helps even hesitant eaters feel more comfortable trying new foods. Whenever possible, children are invited to participate in snack preparation—a meaningful opportunity for hands-on learning, problem-solving, and natural math and science exploration.
- Rest & Read—After snack, we settle into a calm story time. Children are encouraged to find a comfortable place to sit or lie down while exploring books of their own choosing, followed by a group read-aloud. Throughout the year, we enjoy a wide range of picture books and, occasionally, short chapter books read over several days. We also use this time to learn and act out nursery rhymes and fairy tales, which play an important role in building early language, rhythm, and literacy skills.
- The Great Outdoors—With bodies rested and fueled, we head outside for gross motor movement and imaginative play. Children enjoy time in the outdoor playhouse and mud kitchen, splash in puddles on rainy days, make snow angels in the winter, and tend the garden through planting and harvesting seasons. Outdoor time includes both free play and group games, with a focus on strengthening large muscles and building confidence in movement. As long as it is safe, we spend time outdoors in all kinds of weather—embracing the rich learning and joy that comes from experiencing nature in every season.
- Wrap It Up—We end our day with a closing meeting, where we reflect on our time together, talk through any peer interactions that may need support, and repeat our growth-mindset affirmations. Afterward, children gather their belongings, and we walk together to the pickup area to reunite with their grown-ups.