Active Learning –– The Central Element

Our STAR curriculum emphasizes “active learning.” This means children engage in hands-on experiences with people, objects, events and ideas. They make choices according to their interests, and teachers support these choices. While the STAR curriculum is structured, its flexible framework allows children to develop confidence and a sense of security, while experimenting with new ideas.

Through exploration and discovery, each child receives ample opportunity to develop his or her natural curiosity and creativity. With the guidance of caring professionals, these “learning” moments help cultivate lasting understanding and are key to transforming discoveries into a lifelong love of learning and academic success.

Knowledge is constructed through interactions with the world and the people around them. At COA, children take the first step on their knowledge path by making choices and then following through on their plans and decisions.

Using the Plan, Do, Review approach, our teachers offer social, emotional and academic support in an active environment. They use open-ended questions to expand thinking and create an atmosphere that is both exciting and secure. The process focuses on creative problem solving and strong verbal communication.

The power of this approach becomes clear as children learn to problem solve through experiences, using higher-level thought processing and critical thinking skills.

COA believes that a high-quality early childhood program encompasses an appreciation for childhood as a unique and valuable stage of development. To this commitment, we also support a close partnership with parents in the context of families, culture and society. We believe in respecting the dignity and worth of every individual within each family and value every child as unique.