Our Classrooms
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. The computers we use help enrich the
children's curriculum. Sign language is an integral part of our
school and starts at the Pre-K level in both music and classroom activities.
Kindergarten, First, Second and Third Grades
Our Kindergarten, First, Second and Third Grades Program is a multi-age classroom with a ration of 6:1. 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, puzzle words and numerous hands-on manipulatives. The Ginn Reading
Program from England is emphasized for our 1st, 2nd and 3rd 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 - an 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 math concepts are also incorporated outside, around our grounds counting trees, evergreens, belgian blocks, fences, and flower blossoms. What a wonderful fun way to learn these concepts!
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 six 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. Video chat functionality on our Apple computers provides us with instant communication with our sister school in Malibu, CA - The California Ocean of Learning School. We gather and sing songs to them periodically as they do with us.
The Canaan Ridge School also has a sister school in Africa - The Meru School
in Arusha, Tanzania. From time to time each year, we
collect pencils, uniforms, computers and hearing aids that we send to the children in Arusha and an orphanage in Botswana. Communication
through letter writing and e-mail, when possible, helps our older children
gain an understanding and appreciation of others in the world who are in need.