A two-year curriculum cycle that follows both the New York State and the Putnam Valley Curriculum for Grades 1 and 2 is followed. Children, therefore, remain in Childside for two years. Childside is composed of four rooms. Each room has a Lessons and Lessons Extension area where a teacher meets with children in small groups, whole groups and individually. The whole reason for the learning process is the child.
Children can be responsible for their own learning.
Children can make choices about themselves and their learning. Child-centered learning is a function of each child's conscious participation in the learning process. Children learn best when they take ownership of learning. Self-esteem is central to a child's ability to learn and to grow emotionally. Children need to have a positive and healthy self image, nurtured through acceptance, honest praise and encouragement.