Aims

Why a bilingual outdoor Pre-School at Lakeside School?

We would like to immerse the children as early as possible in two languages. This corresponds with the results from the latest research on bilingualism as well as supporting the aims of the Lakeside School.
We know that intensive training of our young children’s perception skills and sensory awareness plays a decisive role in creating a sound basis necessary in order to successfully meet the Lakeside School’s high academic expectations.
Our outdoor Pre-School offers 3-4 year olds a learning environment which optimally supports sensory development and basic experiences within a space often limited for many children.
We are convinced that the bilingual outdoor Pre-School will ideally develop the skills necessary for our Kindergarten program.

The woods as a natural space, free of room restrictions, promotes motor development, stamina, strength, concentration and self-confidence.
Unstructured, natural materials stimulate fantasy, fostering initiative and creative thinking which in turn supports the child’s cognitive development.
Outdoor play allows children to experience their own limits and successes in a natural way.
Medical studies confirm that being outdoors increases immunity against illness.

Besides aiming to develop the child’s self competence and social skills within a group our bilingual outdoor Pre-School provides:

Natural immersion in a second language.
Holistic learning by developing all senses in a natural environment.
Opportunity to experience the annual rhythms of nature and gain firsthand experience and knowledge of the wonders in the woods.
Daily opportunities to develop the children’s sense of care and responsibility towards our environment and living things.
The woods as a potential for creativity.
The space necessary for the children to apply their natural need for movement and adventure to its fullest, based on given security and support.
The experience of recognising and respecting rules and boundaries.