Robbins Hebrew Academy

It used to be that a child's aptitude was measured by their understanding of the 3R's. No longer. Today, the most advanced pedagogy says learning facts and figures is fine, but hardly a predictor of lifelong achievement. What is? Studies are now telling us that curiosity, creativity and perseverance are essential. Introducing the world-renowned Reggio Emilia inspired Early Childhood Education program at RHA. This year, we've revamped the JK-SK program based on this legendary approach to education. In 2016, we are beginning a nursery program with the same philosophy. The Reggio approach to education (named after the Italian town in which it was born) was developed more than 60 years ago. Based on years of research and testing throughout the world, it has become astoundingly clear that Reggio's focus on play, imagination and self-expression builds more adept and advanced learners. Students go into first grade far ahead of the pack in terms of reading, math and critical thinking. It's a departure from traditional programs. Small groups ensure each child has the chance to ask questions, be heard and learn deeply. Teachers tailor lessons to fit the particular needs and interests of the class – and each child. Children collaborate to find answers to their own questions. Redesigned classrooms – new furniture and all – bring the outside environment in to allow for more interaction with the natural elements. Each week, time is spent outdoors investigating and observing nature. And each child learns to express themselves in a multitude of ways – without cookie-cutter approaches that squelch learning and creative thinking. This happens across both general and Jewish studies. "The idea is to embrace children's natural curiosity," explains Claire Sumerlus, head of school. "Children have an amazing ability to think critically and we encourage them to ask questions and to explore their environment. This inquiry produces learners who are able to analyze, hypothesize and come up with their own solutions. Amazingly, it all begins in the first years of a child's education." "On a recent excursion, the JK class was curious about why trees grow in different directions," explains Sumerlus. "These questions led to discussions about the way in which sunlight and the environment affect the growth of trees and vegetation. The students then took their observations and explored them further in the classroom." The end result is happy children who develop a lifelong love of learning. Children who not only develop sharper and more sophisticated minds, but who also go through life thinking innovatively and originally. For more information about the early years experience at Robbins Hebrew Academy, please call 416-224-8737 ext. 137 or visit www.rhacademy.ca. JK and SK Get a World-Class Upgrade n i n e

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