Programs and Curriculum
Enrichment Programs: Art, Music, Yoga
Enrichment programs are classes that are taught weekly by specialized teachers to the Junior Preschool, Preschool and Pre-K programs. These classes are integral parts of the TPA learning experience and do not cost any extra to our parents. “The arts nurture the imagination and creative spirit of all children. Sensory awareness (sight, sound, touch, smell, taste) is the foundation for all imaginative activity and creative expression. For young children, the importance of the arts is the process of creating rather than the end result. As children are involved in the arts process they develop independence, self-esteem, and self-expression. The arts connect all areas of learning and are fundamental to children’s development and education. The arts enable all children to discover more about who they are and gain insight into their own culture and the cultures around them.” ~Tuscan Unified School District
Art: Ms. Joann
The children use a variety of materials or media to create original pieces of art. Such items include: fabric, paper, crayons, markers, pencils, glue, cardboard, and clay. The children also explore with various tools such as: brushes, fingers, scissors, rollers, cotton swabs and dabbers. The children create art in two or three dimensions. Shapes, colors, lines, forms and texture are all terms reinforced during art instruction.
Another key component of the art instruction is self expression. The children learn to express themselves by creating a piece of art and describing it focusing on the small details. The children also learn to appreciate other artists’ work. From a friend’s piece of art to a famous piece of art, the children are taught to appreciate the unique characteristics and explore different styles.
Music
Music incorporates rhythm, tones, beat, words, and instruments which stimulates the senses and reinforces learning. Young children love to dance and move to music. Movement is incorporated by dancing, clapping hands, tapping sticks, playing instruments and marching to the beat. The children are introduced to various instruments and experience many types of music incorporating different cultures. By learning and repeating melodies, preschoolers improve and increase brain development.
Yoga: Ms. Kathy
“Yoga enhances their flexibility, strength, coordination, and body awareness. In addition, their concentration and sense of calmness and relaxation improves. Doing yoga, children exercise, play, connect more deeply with the inner self, and develop an intimate relationship with the natural world that surrounds them.” “Yoga for Kids” by Marsha Wenig
Ms. Kathy is certified in children’s Yoga and has developed a program for The Peninsula Academy based on the above principles. The children learn to calm themselves and connect with their body. The children enjoy forming the different age appropriate poses while improving their balance and flexibility.
