Overview

In the Junior Academy Program, we follow the child’s lead and introduce structured activities that have specific goals in mind. Well trained teachers will keep the children engaged and interested while working on cognitive, sensory and motor skills. The curriculum is designed to prepare the child to be successful in our Preschool Academy program.

Goals

• Develop healthy bodies and minds
• Establish a sense of comfort in a nurturing and loving environment
• Develop a sense of security
• Improve gross and fine motor movements
• Enhance communication skills and clarity of speech
• Develop healthy eating habits
• Stimulate the mind based on Montessori and Reggio philosophies
• Enhance creativity and imagination
• Heighten the senses
• Establish good social habits

Key Components

• Cognitive Abilities – Developing concentration, focus and memory
• Motor Skills – Practicing fine and gross motor movements
• Sensory Awareness – Exploring and discovering while using the senses
• Language Development – Developing receptive and expressive language
• Socialization – Fostering good social habits
• Practical life – Improving body control, coordination and developing a sense of order
• Music and Art – Developing musical and creative abilities
• Movement – Developing body control and coordination while engaging in indoor and outdoor activities!

Additional Options

Introduction to Music:

Our music program is developed and conducted by Music Together, an international early childhood music and movement program. This research based, developmentally appropriate music curriculum will bring out your child’s creative and artistic side. Our program consists of singing, dancing and making music. Children are intrinsically drawn to music and we believe it is important to explore their musical abilities. Children will learn to move their body to music by clapping, stomping, rocking and dancing to the rhythm while enjoying simple instruments such as tambourines, bells and rattles.

Introduction to Yoga:

The benefits of Yoga for young children is immeasurable! Yoga will instill

• a positive attitude
• an ability to self-calm
• a sense of mind and body coordination
• a sense of peace
• a sense of self confidence

Yoga is part of our daily routine at Options Academy!

Arts and Crafts:

Children love to experience paints, clay and different textures from a very young age. Children are encouraged to explore, use their senses, improve their motor skills and develop their hand-eye coordination while getting messy and colorful!

Home Economics:

In our home economics program, children will participate in preparing simple snacks such as fruits, vegetables and various whole grain foods. This option is designed to expose children to nutritious food options, to heighten their senses and to increase independence and confidence!

Gym:

Children improve their gross motor skills while playing and exploring in our gross motor room. This room consists of:

• Tunnels to crawl through
• Push and pull toys
• Soft balls to throw and kick
• Rocking toys to improve balance
• Soft blocks for building
• Inclined plains for balance and strength.