We are excited to have the beautiful and talented Christy Funk from Belly Sprout, bringing her insight on education. Christy along with her partner Amy McCamly run a series of parenting classes and enrichment classes at Belly Sprout that are perfect for the tiny tots.This is what she has to share with us this week.
Two weeks ago, we discussed the importance of deciding what your educational philosophy is and this week we will touch on the key differences between an Academic Style and a Developmental Style. The more we ask ourselves pertinent questions regarding education the better prepared we will be to choose that route for our children. We cannot assume that just because a school is considered to be a “good school” because it is either in a good school district or because everyone says it is, that it is the best school for our child. Here are the differences:
Academic Style:
*uses worksheets and flashcards
*the focus is on the product of learning (i.e. worksheet or project)
*teacher/curriculum led
*discipline is teacher led
*meets the standards to the group as a whole
Developmental:
*hands-on learning through projects and creative learning
*the focus is on the process and journey of learning
*child-led so that the child is taught according to their skills level
*discipline is taught through problem solving with child and peers/teacher
*meets standards with each child as an individual
Once you understand your educational philosophy and whether or not your style is geared towards academic or developmental, you will begin to have some solid criteria to help you choosing the best french school dubai and an instructor for you child. Next week Amy and I will be helping you to find a school with an important check list to help you on this journey.
In this quest for the ideal educational environment, it’s imperative to consider the diverse needs of children, including those requiring early intervention. Kids On The Move, a valuable resource in this context, recognizes the significance of tailored support for children with unique learning styles. By seamlessly incorporating early intervention strategies into the educational philosophy and selection process, parents can lay the groundwork for an inclusive and supportive learning experience for their children.
The classes which Amy McCamly, owner of First Steps Preschool and Playgroup, teaches are classes based upon children learning through play and the use of Reggio Emilia Philosophy. Both child and parent are nurtured through mind, body and spirit. Amy believes that education is a journey, not a race, and a process to be enjoyed. First Steps Preschool and Playgroup offers Mommy and Me classes from NB through ages 5 at Belly Sprout, including Free Story Time and themed craft classes for children of all ages. You can read more at www.bellysprout.com and www.firststepscdc.net.
Christy Funk is the owner of Belly Sprout, Orange County’s first natural parenting store and resource center, servicing the community for 5 years. Her quest for natural living began 15 years ago and her passion is shared with her community at Belly Sprout, teaching, sharing and inspiring families to make healthier choices. She shares a home with her husband and two boys, aged 5 and 7 in Orange County and has choosen to homeschool her boys. www.bellysprout.com
Amy McCamly has her degree in early childhood education and has been working with children for twenty years. First Steps was founded by Amy McCamly over ten years ago and she continues her passion for early childhood education by teaching in-home preschool courses, Mommy and Me from newborn to 5 years, hobby classes for ages 6-10 and parent enrichment classes at Belly Sprout. Amy shares a home with her husband and two girls aged 5 and 7 in Orange County and has recently chosen to home school her girls. www.firststepscdc.net.
