Curriculum

Class Curriculum

While there is not a single curriculum that has been identified as “the best” for meeting the early care and education needs of children, the following practices are linked with positive learning outcomes and form the foundation of our curriculum.  The LAB School is committed to:

  • Providing a rich, engaging verbal environment.
  • Blending play, authentic learning experiences, and direct instruction so children have multiple opportunities for learning in key areas.
  • Arranging a schedule and routines that are consistent but not overly structured or regimented.
  • Developing respectful and reciprocal relationships with children and their families.

Daily Schedules

The day is guided by a routine developed to meet the needs of children in the preschool years. Through careful planning, each day offers a balance of large and small group experiences, child and teacher-directed time, and active and quiet activities. While the schedule remains flexible to meet the daily interests and needs of the group, a typical day includes:

  • Gathering: Children engage with manipulative toys, writing materials, books and one another while waiting for everyone to arrive. The teacher then gathers the group to describe the day’s center choices and activities.
  • Learning Centers: Children choose from a range of play areas presenting opportunities for social interaction, project work, and learning. A nutritious daily snack is offered during center time and gives children an energy boost for a busy day.
  • Circle: A large group meeting time used to build community through sharing, songs, and stories. Project topics and investigations are often introduced through books, discussions, and presentations from visiting experts.
  • Small Group: Children gather in small groups to complete a teacher-planned activity that often relates to the project topic and introduces social, science, math, and/or literacy concepts using age-appropriate materials and methods.
  • Outdoor Play: Opportunities to run, jump, and climb are provided on the playground daily.

Contact

Kristin Dahl Horejsi
Director
LAB School
406-243-4262
kristin.horejsi@umontana.edu