Early Childhood
“Play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”
Preschool
In our early childhood curriculum, we draw inspiration from the philosophies of John Dewey, Maria Montessori, and the Reggio Emilia approach, creating a dynamic and child-centered learning environment. We believe that education should be an active, hands-on process where children learn through experience, exploration, and social interaction, as advocated by John Dewey. From Maria Montessori, we adopt the principle of fostering independence and self-directed learning, allowing each child to progress at their own pace in an environment rich with opportunities for discovery. The Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes the importance of the child’s voice, creativity, and collaboration in the learning process, encouraging children to express themselves and engage with their peers in meaningful ways.
Our curriculum is designed to be flexible and responsive to the unique interests and needs of each child. We incorporate emergent themes that arise from the children’s curiosity and passions, allowing their natural interests to guide their learning journey. By integrating these diverse educational philosophies, we create a holistic and nurturing environment that supports the development of the whole child— Academically Strong, Artistically Proud, Physically Active, and Socially Grounded.
Our preschool program is designed for children 2 years and 6 months through age 4.
Junior Kindergarten
As with the Preschool curriculum, our Junior Kindergarten program is rooted in a deep respect for children's natural curiosity and desire to learn. Our developmental-play based structure is inspired by the groundbreaking work of renowned educators like Eric Erikson, Jean Piaget, Reggio Emilia, Lev Vygotsky, Maria Montessori, and John Dewey. We believe that play is the cornerstone of early childhood education and childhood should be honored. We want our early learners to come as they are and grow alongside us. Our program is designed to scaffold learning, providing a supportive environment where children can explore, experiment, and discover at their own pace. By nurturing their innate curiosity and fostering a love of learning, we set the stage for a lifelong journey of inquiry and exploration in an inclusive and diverse environment. As our students transition into our inquiry-based elementary program, they are well-prepared to embrace more advanced learning concepts with enthusiasm and confidence.
The Hollywood Schoolhouse early childhood program is designed to foster a sense of belonging, build a strong foundation of knowledge, cultivate curiosity, and enrich character. We believe that children thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment where they feel known, encouraged, valued, and empowered to explore their interests. By providing a rich emergent curriculum that encourages exploration, experimentation, and critical thinking, we help children develop a lifelong love of learning. Our program is grounded in the belief that every child is unique and deserves opportunities to grow and flourish at their own pace.
“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.”