Curriculum
D.P.K. believes in a true “hands-on” learning experience.
Students ages 18 months to six years old are always busy! Whether in their classrooms or outdoors, DPK’s well rounded and integrated curriculum is composed of:
Language
Language materials are matched with real objects to reinforce physical and spatial concepts as well as vocabulary development. Language is also developed through self expression.
Sensory-Motor Development
The purpose of sensorial exercises is to help the child develop the five senses. The Sensorial exercises enable the child to differentiate, order, classify, and describe sensory impressions while exploring their surroundings.
These activities help develop fine motor skills through simple everyday activities such as collecting, counting, sorting, putting things in order, classifying, and comparing sizes and colors. Sensorial activities are an imperative foundation for future mathematical concepts.
Autonomy and Self Awareness
Through the repetition of Autonomy and Self Awareness activities, children develop and refine basic skills that will serve them all their lives. Pouring liquids and solids, preparing snacks, caring for plants, hand washing, folding clothes, etc. are some of the activities that aim to enhance the child’s development of fine motor control, hand-eye coordination, balance, sense of order, concentration, and independence. In addition, they give the students the sense of responsibility, cooperation and community so necessary to human development.
Problem Solving and Logical Thinking
These skills are developed with activities such as sorting or matching materials and working with puzzles.
Social Skills
The environment allows children to accomplish activities independently, as well as activities that require them to cooperate with others and to become active members of their small community.
Spanish
DPK students receive Spanish instruction from the very beginning of their journey. The curriculum implements age-appropriate methods, using music and reading to inspire learning Spanish as a second language or strengthening it in native speakers.
Music
In a vibrant and fun environment, children experience music holistically through movement, songs and group activities. We explore the basics of music by introducing rhythms with percussive instruments. We aim for the musical development of each child’s mind through the integration of movement and sound.
Physical Education
Fun activities that help the child develop gross motor skills such as jumping, crawling, throwing, catching, and so on. These activities enhance physical fitness, and improve self-confidence, while introducing our children with the basics of sports and good sportsmanship.
Art
Our art program is designed to encourage your child to engage, experiment and develop projects based on his own interests, ideas, experiences, and interactions with his surroundings. Art is explored in the form of drawing, painting, cutting, glueing, and learning about art and artists.
Gardening and Green Consciousness
Green spaces give children the chance to move and learn in a relaxing and joyful environment. Whether with a little flower or herb in a pot, or a small bed or collection of pots in a small yard, we give the children the opportunity to collaborate however they can to work in the garden. To them, it always feels like a special treat and it teaches them responsibility.
Our curriculum is designed to fortify areas of need and to further develop students’ strengths. Our staff continuously monitors students’ progress to determine how best to serve their academic needs, while not losing sight of their physical and social-emotional needs.