Spectrum Station preschool classes are “multi-aged.”

“Multi-aged” means that a preschool class will consist of children ages 3 and 4 years old. Multi-age classroom teachers understand that children of varying ages and developmental levels approach problems differently. Interacting with one another stimulates mental growth. As a result, in multi-age group settings, children thrive both intellectually and socially.

Children learn from one another through interaction and exploration. The very verbal, inquisitive four year old acts as a mentor and guide for the younger emerging three year old. Multi-age grouping helps children develop a sense of community and supports social development.

Multi-age classrooms enable teachers to teach children in small groups based on the individual child’s learning development, rather than his/her chronological age.

Our preschool curriculum is theme-based. Every two weeks our theme and our educational activities change. The curriculum is adapted for those who are ahead, as well as for those who need more help. Teachers work on colors, numbers, math concepts, science concepts, alphabet names and letter sounds.

A variety of “enrichments” are added to Discovery Centers each week which support the theme and encourage a specific learning concept. While in Discovery Centers, teachers conduct small group learning sessions to work on specific concepts, such as number recognition and counting. Each morning starts off with a large group time to introduce the new learning materials in Discovery Centers and to enhance the theme with song, books and activities.

Much of their morning is spent in Centers and small group learning activities. The program progresses throughout the day, as planned activities proceeds and new experiences unfold.