Our Curriculum

Our daily four-hour schedule follows a creative and flexible curriculum designed to meet the needs of the individual child within a multi-age setting.  Each child is allowed to grow at his or her own pace, in his or her own way.  Children are encouraged to develop their individuality while they develop relationships within the group.  In the Portland Kinderschule’s loving and caring environment, children learn to trust and open up to new experiences, and to recognize their own inner resources and so reduce their level of frustration.  During situational conflicts they learn to accept compromises. 

Non-German speakers and German speakers alike are immersed into the program and learn the language through repetition of our daily routines and songs, as well as through interactions with other children, parents, and the teacher.  Each child learns the language at his or her own pace.  First, the child comes to understand the meaning of the words, much like an infant and toddler does in its beginning stage of language development.  Once the child becomes more familiar and comfortable with the language, he or she begins to speak it, too.

Cognitive development is promoted through activities that engage all of the senses.  By verbalizing the actions, activities, or observations, the child learns the meaning of language in a fun and playful way during the process of socialization, and increases his or her German vocabulary.  Activities in sorting, classifying, and divisions introduce the child to mathematical concepts.   Music and movement are woven into the program to facilitate transitions and provide a fun way to express whatever we are learning.  At times we may sing silly songs just to have fun with words and action.  Learning songs in German also helps to build vocabulary.

Since we are a cooperative preschool, parents are involved in many aspects of the program.  You and your child will have the opportunity to participate in many field trips and be part of an active audience for the many guest speakers that are anticipated throughout the school year.