Special curricular emphasis is given to language development, children's socialization, and the acquisition of problem-solving skills. Ample outdoor play space, shaded by oak trees and protected from the weather by an open semi-enclosure, provides exceptional opportunity for physical activity, a relationship with nature and spacious self-expression. Sliding glass doors allow indoor and outdoor areas to combine in a unique open-air classroom environment.
The children's day is organized to allow for substantial uninterrupted periods of play and work with natural materials like sand, water, wood, paint and clay. In addition, staff offer directed activities at regular intervals, and the children are free to choose among these projects. Children's individual interests and abilities help to shape our curriculum in science, pre-math, art, music and drama, self-help skills, and gymnastics. Self-directed, child-initiated play is promoted. Field trips into the community explore the University campus-sometimes a simple neighborhood walk, perhaps a special Cal Performance at Zellerbach Hall or a visit to a garden.
The day begins with a relaxed morning arrival period and continues with breakfast, circle time, morning projects, lunch, naps or rest, afternoon projects, snack, cleanup, group time, and game time. Additional instruction during the week by specialists in dance/movement and gymnastics enriches the curriculum. (An additional fee is assessed for these classes.)