How We Learn
Learning at our microschool is joyful, purposeful, and rooted in the natural rhythms of childhood.
We believe learners thrive when they’re free to explore, create, question, and connect—without being rushed or boxed in. That’s why our approach honors curiosity over compliance, relationships over routines, and growth over grades.
Learning Through Play
Play isn’t a break from learning—it is learning.
From ages 3 to 14, learners develop cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills through hands-on, imaginative play. Whether they’re building with blocks, acting out stories, solving nature-based puzzles, or exploring group dynamics, they are constantly making connections that deepen understanding.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, play supports brain development, reduces stress, and improves executive function—key for everything from self-regulation to academic success. In short, play builds the foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
We prioritize:
Open-ended exploration and project-based learning
Outdoor time and movement
Creative expression through art, music, and storytelling
Learner-led inquiry and real-world connections
Our Approach to Assessment
We don’t believe a letter or percentage tells the story of a child. Instead of traditional grades, we rely on observations, learning documentation, and reflective conversations to track progress and nurture growth.
Here’s how it works:
Mentors observe learners’ engagement, communication, problem-solving, and emotional development in real-time
We gather work samples, photos, and reflections that show learning in action
Learners participate in goal setting and progress check-ins, helping them develop ownership over their learning
Families receive regular narrative updates, and formal assessments are available upon request
While we do maintain records for transcript purposes (especially for older learners or families transitioning to traditional models), we choose not to emphasize grades in daily learning. Why? Because the research is clear:
“Students who consistently receive poor grades tend to develop a defeatist attitude and low self-esteem about their academic abilities, often disengaging from learning entirely.”
— Educational Psychology Review, 2017
We focus instead on building resilience, curiosity, and confidence—qualities that serve learners far beyond any test or report card.
No Homework, More Home Life
We have a no-homework policy, and we’re proud of it.
Research shows that homework has little to no academic benefit for elementary-aged learners and can actually lead to increased stress, family conflict, and burnout. According to a study by the Center for Public Education, homework in the early years “has no substantial impact on academic achievement.”
Instead of worksheets and pressure, we encourage:
Evening routines that include reading for fun
Unstructured play
Family connection, movement, and rest
Home is where learners recharge, explore their own interests, and bond with the people who matter most. We trust that life itself is rich with learning—when we slow down enough to see it.