Monday, October 29, 2012

Clearwater Hosts Weekly Play Days

The Clearwater School's Play Days program provides an opportunity for toddlers, preschoolers and their families to experience our ground breaking model of education. Join us for open-ended play and parent education every Friday, from 9:30am to 12noon. No reservations are required and the program is free.

At The Clearwater School learning happens through active exploration. Play Days allow young children to freely explore a safe environment. By following their own impulses, they can totally be themselves as they grow and develop friendships with others.

Each Friday we include a discussion time so parents can learn the underlying philosophy and practice of Clearwater's approach and gain parenting support.

 Students meet with staff to organize Play Days

A highlight of our program is the involvement of Clearwater students and many opportunities for visiting children to observe and interact with them. For families considering future enrollment in our school, Play Days is an opportunity interact with older students and observe their well-honed decision-making and problem-solving skills. Twelve students signed up to  host, provide information and play with visiting children and their parents. They will alternate with each other every week so everyone can be a part of the program.

When asked what attracted them to participate in Play Days, students had this to say.

Thirteen-year-old Maddy said she likes building relationships with kids and parents. She thinks it's easier for parents to enroll their children at Clearwater when they know people here. Eleven-year-old Nikos said he likes playing with younger kids.

Thirteen-year-old Alise loves kids and knows being part of Play Days will be a fun experience. Fifteen-year-old Gregory enjoys small children and said he learns how to be a better person by being with young children. Thirteen-year-old Michael loves reading to and teaching kids stuff. He also likes watching kids grow up.

Twelve-year-old Lily believes having this program will help the school grow, something that is important to her. Matt, the staff member coordinating this program, said students who participate in Play Days are taking leadership roles and giving back to the school.


Play Days organizing meeting

If you are interested in attending, there's no need to call ahead--just show up at 9:30am any Friday morning. (NOTE: Because of Clearwater's holiday schedule, there won't be Play Days on November 23, December 21 and 28.)