Each child develops fine motor control by using materials such as blocks, legos , writing and art tools and mathematic manipulatives. Gross motor development is fostered through movement, outdoor play and physical education. Active play includes the use of balls, hoops, bean bags and balance beams. Outdoor equipment includes the sandbox, climbing bars, riding toys and much more. In all areas of learning for young children, teaching begins at the child's level of competence and understanding.
Natural curiosity is a motivating force.
At this level, purposeful, self-directed activity grows out of personal interests. Thus, many opportunities are available for the child to make choices. The child also engages in a variety of tasks designed to increase attention span and improve listening skills. The integrated curriculum emphasizes projects and activities designed around particular themes and units of study. These themes include, but are not limited to, the self, the ocean, the desert, the city, the country, the rainforest, the jungle, grasslands, Alaska, Antarctica, dinosaurs and the prehistoric age.