We are proud of the Geneva Day School's curriculum, which has been continuously refined over the course of the more than three decades since the school's founding. It features an integrated program in language arts, science, social science, mathematics, aesthetic awareness, motor perception, and reading readiness. We emphasize the development of solid thinking processes - the independent and group-oriented problem-solving skills that are the foundation of every good learner's academic ability.

On a typical day at Geneva Day School, children might watch butterflies hatch from cocoons, act out the coming of spring through creative movement and song; work with manipulative games that provide a strong intuitive grasp of math concepts; recognize the shapes and sounds of letters; and join with their friends in aerobic outdoor play.

In addition to the core curriculum of each child's classroom, the school offers a range of special learning opportunities including Creative Movement and Music, weekly Art Enrichment programs for all classes; Computer Education in the Open Classroom and in the All-Day and Kindergarten classes. In addition, other special after-school enrichment classes are offered.

The music and movement program integrates movement, dance, song, story, instruments, games, puppets and rhythmic finger plays to create a musical atmosphere where children can begin to learn that music is everywhere.

The preschool years are an important time to explore and try different things. This allows children to learn at their own pace, and to explore warm ups and song. They will also begin to relate music to movement through games that will utilize their large muscle skills and imaginative play. In addition, the children will talk about and utilize various instruments to play along as a group.

Music is an important way to develop emotional intelligence for it can express what can't be said in words. Studies have also proven that children who are exposed to music at a young age tend to do better with logic related problems. The goal of this program is for children to develop inner hearing, rhythmic understanding, and a love of music that will last all their lives.

This program is designed to provide an instructional environment that fosters a child's creativity and enthusiasm for art. In a safe and accepting atmosphere, each child is given freedom to explore and enjoy the "art process." Children have the opportunity to use their special talents to express something "unique" about themselves. Each young artist learns that there are many ways to create. They are encouraged to use their imaginations and to experiment with and modify the art materials provided at each lesson. As a result, no two creations look alike because each child is allowed to make his/her own interpretation. The emphasis is on the "process" and not on the product. Nevertheless, the finished masterpieces created in this fun environment are truly wonderful.

Children are exposed to a wide variety of art media and techniques. Each new art process introduced will help to develop new skills and introduce new concepts while reinforcing those previously learned. The students are encouraged to ask questions and to analyze. They are encouraged to use all of their senses, to be curious, and to gain greater awareness and appreciation of the world of art that surrounds them.

Each art experience is designed to promote confidence and pride in the children's capabilities. They know that their efforts and their finished artwork are respected and appreciated. Their artwork is regularly displayed to be admired by all!

Art for Three- and Four-Year-Old Children

In this program the "Elements of Art" are introduced. Children are introduced to the concepts of lines, shapes, colors, textures, and space. During each art lesson children explore these basic elements of design using their own creative energies. There is great excitement as the children see how their actions can dramatically make a change. A color changes when another color is added. A line changes from a curve to a zigzag to a series of dots. A blob of clay becomes a pancake and then a bird's nest. Each change opens up new possibilities for the imagination.

Art for the Kindergarten Class

"Art through the Ages" is the theme of this program. First, factual information is presented at an appropriate level by means of art reproductions and stories. After a discussion of the time period being studied, children continue their learning through a "hands on" activity. They enjoy capturing the mood, style, subject matter, or technique of a specific art period and/or artist. These art historians begin with "cave art" and advance through time to "contemporary art." In both art curriculums a description of the lesson is sent home so that parents are kept current on what their children are learning. This handout should be used as a catalyst for parents to talk with their children about what they created. Try asking your child to tell you about his/her picture. Then, show your enthusiasm for their masterpiece by commenting on the process used, what you see, and how the picture makes you feel. These types of comments let your children know that you appreciate their efforts as well as the finished product.

We know that an important part of a young child's learning process, the development of gross motor skills, often happens outside the classroom. To that end, we are extremely pleased to offer our students a beautifully equipped playground, specially designed to meet their "growing" needs.