Philosophy and Purpose

Philosophy and Purpose

The Learning Garden is a child centered, inquiry based program of mixed ages sponsored by YMCA Camp Belknap.

Our program offers a curriculum that is inquiry based, where children are creative, competent, and active participants in their learning. There is a purposeful and carefully planned learning environment, materials, and teaching practices that support the development of the whole child. Concepts are introduced sequentially and allow time for exploration, repetition, and trial and error. Children will have uninterrupted work/play time, guided student choices, with an emphasis on discovery learning rather than instruction. Observation is used to guide and direct (or redirect) to provide challenges when appropriate to meet individual learning needs. Our program supports the strengths and needs of individual children, the group as a whole, and families. Classroom materials evolve and change regularly to reflect children's interests and promote inquiry and discovery.

We value a learning environment that is safe for exploration and imagination, where children are listened to and supported. We strive to create an environment where children can learn and play in peace and safety, surrounded by nurturing relationships and creative opportunities. Children will be encouraged to think, wonder, question, problem solve, experiment, and create. We value the process over product, and every experience is an opportunity for learning. We respect the individual and encourage connections with others.

It is our goal to provide children with a broad range of educational and fun activities that develop literary, science and math skills as well as experiences that enrich each child's social, emotional, physical and creative abilities that cultivate a positive self-esteem and life-long love of learning.