Learning Within Community We believe community, at its best, is a dynamic laboratory for creativity, exploration and learning, as well as a safe place to voice doubt and ask questions. From the home base of community, people of all ages gain the safety to explore, experiment and take the risks necessary for creative and original thinking. We view community, not only as a source of support and belonging, but as an essential part of the learning experience. In our mixed-age classes, children learn from modeling by teachers, parents (their own and others) and peers of different age and experience levels. Parents learn and grow as they support each other through the often messy, joyful experiences of parenting. Community inspires and exposes its members to the passions and perspectives of others, provoking a collision of ideas that sparks creativity.
Experience with different perspectives fosters empathy, but, sometimes, differing opinions lead to conflict. Rather than ignoring or punishing conflicts between children, we see them as opportunities for social and emotional growth. We teach age-appropriate nonviolent conflict resolution to all children and adults involved in our classes and programs. We believe the ability to work together, despite differences, is a vital skill for children and parents to carry with them as citizens of the global community.