At The River Academy, we are developing wise leaders, effective communicators, logical thinkers, and faithful followers of Jesus Christ. These are some of the “fruit” we strive to grow in our students. But how do we do that in kindergarten, third grade, and other elementary years?
To grow good fruit, a tree needs to be planted in nutrient-rich soil, tended, and cared for so it can develop strong roots. So where do we start in the minds and hearts of our youngest students? First, we train their brains to retain a large amount of information. Students absorb (memorize and apply) the core knowledge of each subject they study. These “nutrients” or knowledge pegs are needed to think critically and learn any subject well. Nutrients are acquired by using chants, songs, hand motions, and games. We capitalize on the students’ natural stage of brain development, in the elementary years (Grammar stage) when young children can memorize things easily and love doing it!
As our younger students memorize phonograms and are immersed in good literature, they develop reading fluency, comprehension, and analytical skills. They also learn to apply their English grammar knowledge to communicate clearly and elaborate on their ideas in writing and oral presentations. Becoming proficient readers, writers, presenters, and mathematicians prepares them well to grow into effective communicators and logical thinkers.
But what else is needed to grow students into wise leaders? Of utmost importance, knowing God and learning how to apply His Word in all areas of study and life. In the grammar years, students learn to write God’s Word in their hearts by memorizing Scripture and catechisms each week. In addition to having a Bible class each year, they also talk about Jesus and how His followers live in community and love others well in every class, any subject, and on the recess field all day long! TRA teachers love Jesus and helping students learn God’s Word and apply it to their daily life.
Finally, kids learn best when they feel loved, known, and supported. The joyful, relational environment teachers work hard to create in their classrooms is just as important as teaching children the skills to memorize information, read well, write well, speak well, and know God. We teach and remind students daily how much they are loved by their Creator. We also work hard to get to know each student and his/her strengths, gifts, and areas of growth. When kids feel known, loved, and safe taking risks in their learning, they naturally grow to be the best that they can be.
Have a great week,
Lisa
