Program for Children Over 2 Years of Age

Language, social-emotional skills, and a sense of self develop rapidly in early childhood. At Tompkins Hall, children learn to explore all the areas and materials in the classroom, articulate their ideas, and begin to incorporate other children into their play in a cooperative manner. Through playing together, relationships are built. Children are exposed to other ideas and work from building frustration tolerance to genuine empathy with peers. Teachers are facilitators who promote active learning and maximize the students' opportunities and abilities to interact with others of all ages. We encourage discussion and collaboration in our classrooms, promoting a social democracy where all voices are heard. Children's critical thinking flourishes through our pedagogical approach. Teachers help children articulate their thinking and bring mindfulness to children's choices, laying the groundwork for independent thinking.

The programs at Tompkins Hall do not use electronic screens with children in any of our classrooms.  Our school is an oasis of children's collaborations centered around hands-on activities, peer interactions, and emergent curriculum that builds around children’s interests.