Wonders Program

Wonders 15 - 24 Months

As children start walking, they are ready to wonder and experience the world around them. This program is especially designed for younger children who are experiencing the world for the first time. We work on gross motor and fine motor skills in natural environments, social and emotional (help soothe), and help foster a focus using different materials. We focus on sensory development (which are important at this age). Small groups of children are given a variety of materials to explore while teachers use inquiry-based questions to stimulate the brain. Teachers read meaningful literature and introduce Spanish in organic ways to entice children. Our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths) program is introduced to children through basic materials, developing their creative thinking and imaginative play. Children will be introduced to music through singing and instruments. Children will have one on one attention to work through emotional challenges until they learn to self soothe and self regulate.

Reggio Emilia approach regards the environment as the “third teacher”. Reggio Emilia teachers carefully chose and place the materials in the environment. Therefore, a varied range of materials, which are in direct relationship with each other, the seasons, interests of the child/group are placed in the classroom throughout the year.

We observe that children gain a  through understanding of the relationship between materials, how they can work with those materials and learn their properties. Children are learning through their experiences so they will retain their knowledge .

- Loris Malaguzzi