Spark Studio
Kindergarten+ (Ages 4.5 - 7)
Joyful Learning in the Spark Studio
The day at the Spark Studio begins with the Montessori work cycle, offering learners a calm and purposeful start as they dive into self-chosen activities that spark curiosity and growth.
After lunch and outdoor time, the focus shifts to loose parts play and engaging in Quest/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) projects, where creativity and exploration take center stage. Between these core activities, learners gather for circle time, participate in community traditions, and work on real-life projects that build practical skills. The day concludes with a collaborative studio cleanup, fostering responsibility and teamwork.
Daily activities in the Acton Spark Studio
During Montessori time, learners engage in self-paced, hands-on activities that foster concentration, independence, and a love of learning, building confidence and mastery in math, language, and life skills.
Waldorf-Inspired: Daily, unstructured outdoor play encourages creativity, resilience, and social skills, allowing children to connect with nature while developing independence and problem-solving abilities.
During Discussion Time, learners practice language (speaking) and listening skills, are introduced to new vocabulary (by a guide’s intentional word choice, not teaching), and examine their role within the community (with role play)
Project-Based Learning: In the Reggio Studio, learners explore self-guided science experiments, open-ended, project-based learning, and expressive art activities, fostering curiosity, creativity, and hands-on discovery in a supportive environment.
Loose parts play encourages learners to weave storytelling into their creations, using open-ended materials to build scenes and characters that bring their imaginations to life. This dynamic play fosters creativity, language development, and collaboration as they invent narratives and share stories with one another.
Grace and Courtesy lessons help learners build respect, empathy, and positive social interactions, guiding them in understanding how to treat others and their environment with kindness and consideration. These practices foster a supportive community where learners develop essential social skills.
Studio maintenance teaches learners to care for their environment and build a sense of ownership. By working together to clean and organize, they develop responsibility, teamwork, and pride in their shared space, fostering habits of respect and community.
Real-World Skills: Learners develop real-world practical skills through activities like woodworking and sewing, gaining hands-on experience with tools and techniques that build fine motor skills, patience, and confidence, while fostering a strong sense of independence and craftsmanship.
Peer-to-peer learning empowers learners to share knowledge, skills, and perspectives with one another, creating a collaborative environment where everyone contributes to and benefits from group understanding. This approach not only reinforces concepts but also builds confidence, empathy, and leadership as learners teach and support each other.