Students in the Primary program are excited to learn everything they can about the world around them. Also during the primary years, the body changes to become longer and leaner, and at the same time motor skills are refined. Children become more self-controlled and self-sufficient. Make-believe play and imagination blossoms. Language continues to expand. The child’s understanding of morality evolves and children begin to assert themselves socially and establish ties with peers.

We believe that children are born to learn, but what they learn depends greatly on their teachers, experiences, and environments. Students in the Primary program learn through the use of many manipulative classroom materials as well as through teacher guidance. Teachers work with a child individually and in small groups on enticing activities, and then allow each child many repetitions with that activity to master its content in depth. Activities include beginning skills in reading, writing, language expression through drawing, writing, mathematics, geography, nature studies, science, practical living skills, social and emotional skills, art, music, fitness, and Spanish.

Materials and activities are readily accessible to students; they enjoy freedom of movement and the ability to choose their own purposeful activity; and they are given the time necessary to complete what they start. They are free to interact socially with their peers in the classroom, in conversation, and in their play.

Through the use of carefully prepared materials and activities as well as communication with teachers and interaction with peers, children grow in personal independence, concentration, and self-motivation, while retaining their innate love of learning.