“Children display a universal love of mathematics, which is par excellence the science of precision, order, and intelligence.” ~ Dr. Maria Montessori.
Cognitive & Mathematical:
Neglecting to introduce mathematical and cognitive concepts due to the belief that a young child’s brain is not ready until the age of 5 is incorrect. At Liberté we believe all humans are born with a mathematical mind and the manner in which we present mathematical concepts, is what makes the difference. The natural manner in which babies and young children manipulate various materials (touching, stacking, sorting, and handling objects) is how they learn to recognise quantities, sequence, and patterns. Thus, using constructivist approaches, we can explain even advanced mathematical concepts to babies and pre-schoolers. Visit this link to see some examples (it is in French however keep watching as math is a universal language):
“A rich vocabulary is fundamental to learning and appreciating literature. How we talk to children matters ” ~ Céline Alvarez
Language & Social: Communication and how we relay information plays a critical role in learning. At Liberté we recognise the role of language and linguistics in human development. We pay particular attention to how we communicate with our students and among teachers. Using positive, supportive language and actions, we encourage our students not only to read and develop numeracy but also to focus on the manner in which they interact socially with others.
“Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution.” ~ Albert Einstein.
Artistic & Creative: Art, music and creative learning allow children to express themselves, and enhance memory, motor skills, self-esteem and critical thinking. At Liberté we believe in art and music as a way of learning, and our artistic activities focused on the process of creation and creativity in their own way rather than focusing on the final product. We allow children to express themselves individually and choose the medium themselves: paints, pastels, clay, pencils, or crayons. Some examples of musical and artistic activities:
“Imageneers are those who have great creativity with practical application, those who apply academic and action learning and we should recognise the way to learn is not just by thinking but by doing.” ~ Unknown
Practical &; Sensory: Young children mimic others (other children and adults alike) and want to do everything themselves – put on their shoes, pour a drink, brush their teeth, get dressed, button their shirt, etc. Practical & sensory activities prepare children for tasks that they will encounter during daily life. These activities when executed in a manner that encourages the development of executive functions (concentration, memory, co-ordination and motor skills, etc.), builds self-esteem and teaches children autonomy – how to do things for themselves. By exercising and developing their executive functions, children develop the ability to keep (in their memory) the various stages of a task and order them in the correct sequence to achieve their objective. They learn how to control inappropriate movements and emotions, and they learn to remain adaptable. Examples of activities include manipulatives (Opening and Closing Containers, Nuts and Bolts, Sorting and organising), cleaning, washing, clocking to name but a few. A link to examples below:
Physical: Free to play and free to learn. Forced physical activities and asking too much from children and can be harmful, both physically and emotionally. At Liberté we allow our students enough time for free play where they can develop the skills needed appropriate to each individual child. We also provide guided and organised activities and small outings like guided walks in the nature reserve adjutant to our Milnerton campus, swimming, yoga and pilates lessons hosted by qualified teachers at our school. Other non-competitive activities include parkour obstacle courses (low balance beams, riding scooters and balance bikes, soccer, hula hoops, etc. Older Younger children are shown how to safely navigate stairs and help themselves off high objects like couches and beds.
“We were meant to explore this earth like children do, unhindered by fear, propelled by curiosity and a sense of discovery. Allow yourself to see the world through new eyes and know there are amazing adventures here for you.” – Laurel Bleadon Maffei.
School Chef
Junior Teacher
Vice-Principal
Director & Principal
Assistant
Senior Teacher
WE DO NOT CHARGE REGISTRATION, EXTRA CURRICULAR OR ADMIN FEES.
Sibling discount at 5% per sibling for full day options only.
Drop off and pick up times are flexible by prior arrangement although we encourage parents to have their kids at school by 08:30 at the latest. Late pickups without prior arrangement will be charged for. The timetable below is a broad outline only, children are allowed to choose their own activities and specific times and type of activities are not strictly set per child or age group. The time slots gives an indication of where the teacher and assistant will focus their guidance and attention.
Liberté School | 8 Lingfield Close, Milnerton Ridge, Cape Town, South Africa | m. 072 500 8477 | t. 021 180 2717 | e. admin@liberteschool.co.za
