Laurel Street School follows the High/Scope curriculum.  High/Scope is an early childhood philosophy that was developed in the United States in the 1960′s.  The philosophy behind High/Scope is based on Jean Piaget’s ideas that children should be involved actively in their learning.  They “learn by doing”, often working with hands on materials and carrying out projects of their own choosing.  High/Scope encompasses all aspects of child development and involves teacher’s and parents in supporting and extending children’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical skills and abilities.

In High/Scope settings, different areas of the classroom are designated for different activities.  Children can choose any of these areas during their “work” time.  Some of these areas include:

  • Sand/water play
  • Art
  • Dramatic Play
  • Math
  • Science
  • Block Area
  • Reading area

An important part of High/Scope approach is the plan-do-review sequence.  Children first plan what materials they want to work with and what they want to do (this is done formally or informally in small groups).  Once the plan is made, however vague, of what they want to do they go and do it.  Then, after this choice worktime, the children discuss what they have been doing and if it was successful.

In a High/Scope setting, children explore, ask and answer questions, solve problems, and interact with classmates and adults as they pursue their choices and plans.  Children construct their knowledge through these active interactions with people, materials, events, and ideas.