Philosophy
At The Acorn Tree
Children and families are celebrated, honoured and empowered. Our program focuses on building strong and positive relationships. Our curriculum is based upon a deep respect for nature and our environment, for ourselves, our families, our friends, our community, for education, and for our unlimited potential and opportunities.
We advocate a lifelong love of learning; we offer inspired, inclusive, and enriched developmentally appropriate activities to nurture each child’s early physical, cognitive, emotional, social & spiritual (moral) growth.
Loving Words from Parents
WALDORF
An early childhood philosophy which began in Germany; focusing on strengthening a child’s affinity with the natural world; based upon the importance of nature, movement, fantasy and play. It nourishes and protects a child’s inborn sense of awe, wonder, play and imagination.
“Accept the child with reverence, educate them with love, send them forth in freedom.” – Rudolf Steiner
REGGIO EMILIA
An Italian educational approach created based upon the principles of active curiosity, respect, responsibility, relationship and community building through self-guided exploration, creativity and discovery in a supportive environment. Observation, experimentation, documentation, and interesting ingredients for imaginative play are utilized. Emergent, curiosity driven, child initiated, hands-on learning.
“Children are endowed with a hundred languages through which they can express their ideas” – Loris Malaguzzi
MONTESSORI
A practical educational style that began in Italy, which encourages a child’s innate desire to learn. This early academic curriculum respects the intelligence and individuality of each child; allowing them the freedom to explore and express themselves in their own way, at their own pace, while being supported and challenged. The child develops intellectual curiosity, confidence, independence, self-respect, and respect for the world around them.
“A child’s work is to create the person she will become… We are helping the child to help themselves” –Maria Montessori