Elements will utilize nature and our community as the wellspring of resources to create an open-ended emergent curriculum that allows children to play and grow into lifelong learners and teachers. Based on the seasons, the curriculum will allow for students’ interests and multiple intelligences to lead the flow through a holistic learning experience. We believe that a healthy connection to one's community is crucial for children to become positive contributors to society. ENP participants of school age (6+) are registered as homeschoolers with their school district.
Learning at Elements Nature Program includes, but is not limited to:
Exploration and stewardship of nature
Farming
Nutritional cooking & eating
Literacy
Mathematics
Physical & Human Geography
Languages
Science
Engineering
Social/Emotional Skills
Art
Music
Movement
Yoga and Meditation
Observation and documentation are key concepts of our method and can be handwritten, recorded, or photographed. Documentation provides a way to look at the development of each child in all domains, as well as creates a window for parents to peer inside the daily life of the program. We also refer to our documentation to plan lessons for each child as well as projects for small groups. We keep a workbook for each child to collect work samples, art, dictated responses, photos, and other pertinent information.
Elements Learning Collaborative values family and community participation. At ENP, parents and staff work together in collaboration as a team for each child—to help ensure each child’s progress. Through newsletters, child workbooks, and various opportunities to volunteer, parents and staff work together creating an environment of growth and compassion.
