| The River Garden Philosophy |
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The River Garden Program draws from many traditional and classical educational
philosophies. The program is most heavily influenced by the philosophies and
teachings of Maria Montessori. The materials in a Montessori classroom like
that of River Garden are designed to be used on progressively sophisticated
levels, so two and three year olds may work with them in the most obvious way,
while four and five year olds move beyond an initial interaction with the
materials to develop new insights and specific skills. A mixed-age classroom
offers a wealth of additional benefits to the older students who naturally
assume mentoring or leadership roles and solidify their knowledge and skills as
they explain and model what they have learned to younger, less-experienced
students. In cooperative learning groups, children learn the rewards and
obligations of both independence and interdependence.
In this vibrant environment, the teachers act as facilitators in the midst of
student-driven activity, creating and seizing upon teachable moments for
students. Students are encouraged to take risks, as they will learn as much
from reflecting upon their mistakes as they do from the satisfaction derived
from their successes. When children reach to attain goals in which they
personally and individually find merit, they thrive both intellectually and
emotionally.
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