Specialty Programs
Our Specialty Programs
Games
Overview
Physical education is an integral part of education that contributes to the development of the individual through planned movement and physical activity. The need for movement is met with traditional games and by combining and refining basic motor skills through running, turning and climbing. Sportsmanship and social development, rather than competition, are emphasized. The results of a well-balanced games program are that young men and women have attained maximum motor development and can move with ease, confidence, and a sense of well being.
Handwork
Overview
The handwork curriculum grows along with the children, progressing with them and supporting them through their developmental stages. Handwork begins in kindergarten as the children explore the worlds of fiber, color, and form. In the first grade, children learn the basic knit stitch and create practical projects in wool or cotton. In second and third grades, this is continued with purling and crochet, which add new movements and require more focus on each row and stitch. In fourth grade, when children undergo a change in consciousness toward individuality, the curriculum reflects this more elaborate stage in their development by teaching cross-stitch. In fifth grade, we begin woodworking and more complex knitting projects, which support the students in their efforts to explore and carve out their newfound individuality. Handwork and woodworking are valuable in the development of intellectual clarity, fine motor skills and inner calm. They allow children to experience the self-confidence and joy that come from the creation of something beautiful and practical.
Music
Overview
Music is brought to the children as another language that they can grow to understand and love. Through singing together, they begin to place themselves with others in society. Beginning in first grade, children sing and play pentatonic flutes. This helps them develop the art of listening while exploring rhythm, words and melody. As they progress through the grades, children move from songs in unison to the beginning of harmony work (the singing of rounds) and the playing of more complex instruments, such as diatonic flutes and violin. With their musical comprehension and skills building from year to year, children can read music, play in ensemble and sing in directed choral groups by the time they reach sixth, seventh and eighth grades.