Learning Approach

Our Beliefs about Learning
We believe people are naturally curious and believe in giving them the freedom to pursue their specific interests rather than require them to adhere to a specific curriculum at specific times.

We believe in a learning environment that is filled with people of a variety of ages and one that is rich with opportunities to move our bodies and explore the world around us.

Day-to-Day
Each person is responsible for deciding how they want to use their time, all day, everyday. Learners are free to do anything they find interesting as long as the activities do not infringe on the rights of others or endanger our surrounding environment. Many days include a morning gathering, for the community to connect, share updates, and participate in a group activity. Most days involve individual exploration, small group, and large group play. Some children pursue special projects over the course of several months or a year. Some projects have included: documentary film about WoW and self-directed education, written collection of WoW games and activities, photography, entrepreneurship/starting a small business, learning how to play a guitar.     

Offerings
Community members (both children and adults) provide learning offerings on a variety of topics and skills for those interested. Examples of past and current offerings include: hikes to nearby trails, art projects of all sorts, Lunar New Year crafts, science experiments, carpentry, archery, knitting, African hand drumming, group games and board games, vision boarding, dance, yoga, slime-making, immigration history of Angel Island, puzzles, slackline balance, maker-space, conflict resolution and first-aid skills. 

Field Trips
We believe learning happens all around us, in a variety of environments. We take a field trip every Friday to explore our local community and the greater Bay Area. Past field trips have included: Exploratorium, Lawrence Hall of Science, Chabot Space and Science Center, Rosie the Riveter Museum, Oakland Museum of California, Pt. Reyes, Keller Beach, Crown Memorial State Beach, Angel Island, Cal Performances at Zellerbach Hall (Kodo Taiko and Step Afrika!), Oakland Ice Center, Cloverdale organic farm and a variety of East Bay parks and playgrounds.