“When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts.”
-The Dalai Lama
Our Philosophy & Guiding Principles
At Whole Kids Academy, we believe strongly in the importance of nurturing, developing, and teaching the WHOLE child. That’s why we’ve combined the best parts from different educational philosophies to create a uniquely well-rounded program. What does this look like for us? Well, it starts by going back to the basics.
SUNSHINE AND FRESH AIR
The outdoors is an extension of our classrooms. Children enjoy ample time outdoors every day, rain or shine, all year long so they can nourish and recharge their bodies and minds.
WHOLESOME, NATURAL FOOD
Our children are served fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, high-quality meats, and organic milk, cheese, and yogurt. No sugar added.
LOVE AND HUGS
We are a home away from home! We hold and cuddle our infants, hug our toddlers and preschoolers, dole out high-fives and encouragement and make sure each child feels cared for.
EMPATHY AND CONNECTION
Empathy leads to connection, and connection is the most basic human need. We work hard to model listening, feeling and expressing empathy for others, and providing connections to teachers, friends, and the school community.
CULTIVATING CURIOSITY AND CREATIVITY
We ignite children’s innate sense of curiosity and creativity through inquiry-based learning. Children’s questions and interests are natural guides as we seek to inspire a lifelong love and appreciation for learning.
“Play is the highest form of research.” –Albert Einstein
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES AND ADVENTURE
Children learn best by doing. Whether conducting research, carrying out experiments, or practicing a new skill, we fully engage all five senses.
WONDER AND AWE
A fantastic childhood is a lasting gift. We hope to teach them what’s possible and help them find their natural gifts and passions.
LESS CLUTTER, MORE INTENTION
Our classrooms are outfitted with soothing colors, meaningful décor, and materials meant for open-ended play, learning, and exploration. Children are taught self-help skills to encourage independence and autonomy.
CHILDREN ARE SEEN AS INDIVIDUALS
We celebrate each child and their unique set of gifts, experiences, challenges, and personality. Our staff aims to unlock their individual potential and reach beyond what they could do the day before.
CHILDREN ARE CAPABLE
Children’s brains develop more rapidly in the first five years of life than at any other time, and our naturally rigorous curriculum and language immersion take full advantage of this special opportunity.
EXCEPTIONAL TEACHERS
Our philosophy on teachers is simple – hire the best, provide lots of continuing education, mentorship and support and treat our teachers well. They are the heart of our school, and we invest in their success.
FAMILIES & COMMUNITY ARE ESSENTIAL
Families come in all shapes and sizes at WKA, and ALL are essential to the healthy development of our children. We rely on and expect partnerships with each to achieve the greatest impact and positive outcomes for our children.
CELEBRATE OUR DIVERSITY
We are proud of the many cultures, ethnicities, backgrounds, and experiences represented by our school’s community. We not only teach our children to recognize and embrace these differences, but we take every opportunity to celebrate them.
