Glow Time: How Bloomin' Turned Light Into Learning

Bloomin' Preschools nurture the development of the whole child in a setting that encourages self-assurance, exploration, creativity, and autonomy. The preschools adopt the Creative Curriculum, a research-based educational program. Educators use Creative Curriculum study starter guides as frameworks to facilitate project-based learning. Children play an active role in choosing their classroom study themes, which helps them feel a sense of ownership over their educational journey.

Study themes are a valuable method for young learners to gain knowledge in science and social studies while developing skills in literacy, mathematics, arts, and technology. These studies involve comprehensive investigations lasting six to eight weeks. The most recent study in Ms. Sabrina's Bloomin’ West GRSP class focused on light.

Students were thrilled to share their learning with family, friends, and caregivers during the culmination event. Students, along with their adults, visited 12 different stations where the students took on the role of teacher. Stations included activities in which students and adults could engage together. Families enjoyed hands-on experiences with dark and light colors absorbing light, explored transparent, translucent, and opaque images, created a tealight lantern, and made shadows using puppets. They also categorized images into artificial and natural light and viewed artwork and books about light. The event concluded with a glow-in-the-dark neon dance party. Everyone celebrated the students' hard work and creativity.

This event not only showcased the children's learning but also strengthened the community's connection, bringing families together in a shared educational experience. Such engaging activities foster a love for learning and highlight the importance of collaboration between school and home.

The success of this study and the culmination night demonstrates Bloomin' Preschools' commitment to providing an enriching and dynamic learning environment that supports the holistic development of every child.