Image of the child
Children are naturally curious, capable and competent learners. They are integral and active members of our community. Children have an innate sense of wonder and that drives their desire to discover and explore the world around them.
Teaching and Learning
Our approach to learning is grounded in a great respect for the child. Our philosophy is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to education that views teachers as observers and mentors, and the environment as the third teacher. Therefore, we provide an environment rich with wonder and opportunities for children to explore their strengths and interests, learn more about who they are as learners, community members and overall people.
As educators we are here to listen and facilitate learning through children’s inquiries. Our child-led and inquiry based approach ensures a developmentally appropriate learning experience while empowering children to be the facilitator of their own learning. Our approach is play based which can easily look and feel simple at first glance. But with deeper observation you can see the intentional integration of the many important skills and inquiry that creates the opportunity for learning and growth.
Our Environment
Small and home like– Our classroom environments and our school are cozy, welcoming and feel like home. We know that learning takes place best in an environment that feels safe, warm and welcoming.
Mixed age classrooms- With our mixed age rooms children build self-confidence and self-esteem while reinforcing their own learning and deepening understanding of academic concepts by supporting their peers. Our children benefit socially, emotionally, and academically from the presence of their peers as nurturers and behavioral role models, which they can emulate when they become the older members of a group, and from exposure to the more complex language and play of their older peers.
Connection to nature- We believe that getting out and exploring our community and being in nature is crucial to child development. We recognize that nature is our biggest and most important teacher that deserves to be honored and respected especially here in Colorado. When we aren’t playing on our natural playscape here at school, we take many adventures to local parks, creek trails and our favorite place to explore is Crown Hill park with its lake, trails and animals.
“The child in nature is an endangered species, and the health of children and the health of the Earth are inseparable.” – Richard Louv author of Last Child in the Woods
Community
Our mission has always been to create an inclusive community where all children and families are welcome. We believe that it truly does take a village to bring community conscious children into this world. We are here to support you in your journey. At CKA, we love that our school is small and our teachers and families can co-partner to help foster the most effective learning experience for each child. We maintain an open line of communication with families about their child’s progress, family dynamics, school events, volunteer opportunities, and other ways they can support our school.