Nursery and Pre-K:
We emphasize in the classroom environment the need to
respect each child’s individual growth pattern. Children are helped on a
one-to-one basis in our hands-on classroom. They are guided in the use of
Montessori and other manipulative materials involving practical life
exercises, sensorial learning material, number concepts, reading and language
development, with emphasis on phonics. Children learn the phonic
alphabet, vowels put to music and crafts in the art room may also involve
"Phonic Fun." Children are absorbed in fun, age-appropriate projects
as they take these concepts from the concrete to the abstract form.
Creative corners, dress up clothes and block building are part of
our daily program for our Nursery children. The use of computers
starts with our 3-year-olds. Macintosh computers help enrich the
children's curriculum. Sign language is an integral part of our
school and starts at the Pre-K level.
K-1-2:
Our K-1-2 Program is a multi-age classroom with a ration of 9:1. Children
in this classroom have their programs in accordance with their specific
needs and levels. There is no limit placed on each child in his or her
program. We keep in mind that all children learn in different ways and
we accelerate each child's program when the child exhibits a readiness
for more involved skills. Children at this level are introduced to a
combination of Montessori principles, modern learning techniques and
`good-old-fashion` academics. Emphasis is placed on our phonetic
reading program to bring about and encourage early readers. Our phonic
reading material is comprised of many fun activities with object boxes,
photos of classmates and numerous hands-on activities. The Ginn Reading
Program from England is emphasized for our 1st and 2nd grade children.
The Ginn Reading Program bases its emphasis on repetition and a slow
build-up of site vocabulary, providing a structured approach to the
development of higher reading skills. Children look forward to our
daily story time after lunch; this also comprises our relaxation and
yoga session and integral part of our school program.
Math skills are presented through a wealth of manipulatives, to give
each child a strong foundation in the understanding of number
concepts-from Montessori wooden spindles and mancala, to gem stones
and cowrie shells-an appealing way to learn counting.
Our multi-age children enjoy our sea life corner-so very special in nurturing a lifelong curiosity toward the sea and its many treasures. Counting and sizing seashells, tracing Montessori sea life booklets-a fascinating learning tool!
Multi-age children also learn from one another. They learn to concentrate, to listen and to express oneself. They leave us with the confidence that they are good learners and with a sense of self-value. Our multi-age classroom has five computers (both Mac and PC) incorporating a variety of software programs reinforcing academic programs in reading and math. The Internet is available to research nature programs and current events appropriate to each child's level.
The Canaan Ridge School has a sister school: The Trust Junior Academy in Arusha, Tanzania, in Africa. From time to time each year, the children collect various items that we contribute to their school. Communication through letter writing and e-mail, when possible, helps our older children gain a appreciation of others in the world who are in need.