Intellectual Growth

An essential beginning for an intellectually stimulating classroom is the environment. At UPC Discovery classroom environments are based on principles and practices from the renowned preschools of Reggio Emilia, Italy, combined with recent neuroscience research.

 A major focus of our curriculum is in-depth project-based learning. Children are provided opportunities to explore the world around them as their teachers observe closely and gauge curiosity in topics like flowers, ladybugs, reptiles, snowflakes, and other topics that capture their interest and enthusiasm. Teachers help children formulate questions and guide their investigations to find answers. Children visit sites in the community to learn more about the topic and to connect with adult experts to deepen children’s understanding.

Highly trained teachers document children’s learning. Children’s work is displayed in thoughtful and meaningful ways that communicate to families and visitors the learning that is occurring in the classroom. Many projects from  Discovery have been featured in journals, books, and training materials for teachers.

In addition to project work, children have opportunities to connect with the arts, including music, drama, and the visual arts.