Early Childhood Enrichment Classes

In addition to the academic subjects and concepts studied at each level, Marymount offers weekly enrichment classes taught by specialist teachers in art, music, dance, physical education, outdoor classroom activities and library time.  Students enjoy the following classes:

ART
Art is an integral part of the EC program in which artwork is often linked to a class theme. The students learn about and practice a wide range of artistic techniques. Art is also an enjoyable vehicle that enhances the children’s fine motor skills. The EC also makes a concerted effort to expose the children to works of fine art in order to encourage an greater aesthetic sensibility and appreciation, particularly given the school’s location in one of the world’s great capitals of art.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The children in EC participate in a balanced program of physical activities encompassing gymnastics, dance, and ball games, the purpose of which is to develop motor skills and at the same time offer the opportunity for students to develop social skills such as turn taking, fairness, and teamwork. Children gain more confidence in their abilities and research has shown that early childhood physical education is important and improves more than just physical wellness as it also assists and improves mental and emotional development .

MUSIC
The music program offers each child the opportunity for active participation in the process of performing and responding to a wide range of music. The program encourages the development of personal skills and an enjoyment of others’ talents. Because music is a pleasurable activity that builds confidence and is a powerful tool for language acquisition, EC students enjoy listening to and making music often throughout the day. Performances by EC students on Marymount’s main stage are some of the most endearing moments of the school year.

DANCE
Children move naturally. They move to achieve mobility, they move to express a thought or feeling, and they move because it is joyful and feels wonderful. When their movement becomes consciously structured and is performed with awareness for its own sake, it becomes dance. Physical development is one of the most obvious benefits dance classes have for children. They are learning a great range of motion, body awareness, balance, muscle strength, coordination, and endurance. Movement patterns require the child to use their entire body to reach a level of fitness that is unparalleled by other activities. Through dance classes, the students begin to understand that the possibilities of movement are endless and fun to explore.

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
The Early Childhood Center students have access to a state-of-the-art Outdoor Classroom every day. The students change into appropriate waterproof suits and appropriate footwear to ensure they are prepared for all weathers. They must move and explore the world with their whole bodies. Carefully organized, safe and challenging play spaces, both inside and outside, are embedded into the program. The learning is planned to
develop student knowledge, skills and understanding is an integral component of the inside and outside provision.

FOREST SCHOOL - DISCOVERY LEARNING
Our outdoor space is an essential asset in this component of the program. The main goals of Forest School in early years settings include encouraging curiosity and exploration with all of the senses, empowering children in the natural environment, and encouraging spatial awareness and motor development. The children will have regular and frequent time to explore the natural world through guided discovery with a qualified Forest School
Educator. Developing concepts will be the key and the staff will observe and document the students’ growth as they make connections, carry out investigations and build up their understanding of the world. Emphasis will be placed on natural materials and exploring how things work and connect.

Starting in EC2, children may participate in after school activities. Activities run from 3:30 - 4:30 pm and include such activities as soccer, swimming, arts and crafts, music and dance.

Bus transportation is available to students beginning in EC2.