STEM

Science

Science is everywhere in the world around us, therefore, learning science helps children to acquire clear, conscious information and make classifications in their natural environment. Through this sequence, children begin to make sense of the information within their environment. Our Science curriculum encourages children to learn through the scientific process of asking questions, analyzing and experimenting probabilities, testing assumptions and drawing conclusions. Science is a process of exploration and discovery and at Zida Academy, we provide children with opportunity to engage in experiments and activities with science and nature. These experiences encourage and nurture children’s natural curiosity of the world around them. We believe when children are provided with opportunities for inquiry-based, hands-on learning, it can strengthen their creativity, leadership and reasoning abilities.

Technology

Zida Academy believes that technology plays a positive role in children’s development when integrated properly. While it cannot replace real life tangible experiences, it does enhance and facilitate active learning and reinforce lessons learned throughout the day. Coding is introduced in our technology curriculum which allows children to learn the basic skills of logic, sequencing and pattern recognition. These skills also enhance children’s understanding of many other subjects such as reading, mathematics and science. Our Educators utilize tablets to document and share day-to-day lessons with parents; through pictures and videos parents can see their child explore and discover their environment and engage in their social development.

Engineering

Engineering is the process by which young children discover how things in their world are built and how they work. Through this process, children learn about problem solving through a hands-on approach. Educators at Zida Academy provide children with opportunities to discover the process by engaging in the natural trial and error of play. Our Educators guide children using the First Principle approach by teaching to the problem and not the tools that are apparent or readily available. This allows children to solve the problems based on their own assumptions, creativity and critical thinking skills. This learning process will encourage children to use their own strengths and abilities and allow them to become leaders in their own unique way.

Mathematics

Math is everywhere and it’s more then just learning numbers. Engaging in puzzles, sorting buttons, building with blocks and singing simple songs like “five little monkeys swinging in a tree” encourages children to learn math. These kinds of hands-on learning activities help create a foundation for children to understand shapes, sizes, length, addition and subtraction. Children who are provided with the opportunity to learn math-related concepts in early childhood often do better in school and are most skilled at using math as an adult. Zida Academy looks for new innovative ways to ensure children are fully engaged in activities that support children’s curiosity and their development. Our goal is to provide children with the fundamentals so that when they reach school-age they are more then prepared and confident to be successful.