Sparks (Ages 4-7)

Sparks Studio, Where Imagination, Independence, and Innovation Begin

Our Sparks Studio is a joyful, hands-on environment designed for our youngest learners to build the foundation of a lifelong love of learning. Inspired by Montessori principles, this program is where curiosity meets purpose, and where even the smallest voices begin to grow into confident leaders.

Each day in the Sparks Studio is filled with purposeful play, storytelling, creative arts, and exploration—both indoors and outside. Sparks learners are encouraged to follow their curiosity, express their creativity, and engage fully with the world around them.

A Love for Learning Starts Early

Sparks build early academic skills in reading, writing, and math through fun, developmentally appropriate activities. From hands-on worksheets that support handwriting and foundational problem-solving to interactive games and learning centers, each moment is carefully designed to meet young learners where they are, while gently encouraging them forward.

Reading is woven throughout the day, especially during our DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) time. Whether it's a solo moment with a picture book or a story read aloud with a guide, Sparks begin to see books as tools for imagination, learning, and joy.

We also explore history and culture in creative ways, like learning about national monuments through hands-on arts and crafts. These moments bring big ideas into reach, making learning both tangible and memorable.

Independence and Ownership

In Sparks Studio, learners begin to take ownership of their education. With the support of caring guides, they set small goals, make choices, and learn to manage their time and materials. This early sense of autonomy helps them develop confidence and pride in their work.

They also take responsibility for their shared environment and learn how to navigate relationships with kindness and empathy. Respect for others and for themselves is at the heart of everything they do.

Collaboration and communication are key parts of the Sparks experience. Through peer games, classroom projects, and early Socratic discussions, learners begin to articulate their ideas, listen to others, and explore different perspectives. 

They even practice public speaking by sharing their thoughts or presenting a project to their peers, planting the seeds for future leadership.

Outdoor Play and Discovery

Unstructured outdoor play is a vital part of the Sparks day. Learners enjoy our playground and natural spaces, where their imaginations come alive in games with friends, bug hunts, and creative adventures. Outdoor time supports their physical, social, and emotional development—and most importantly, it gives them space to just be kids.

Entrepreneurship at Every Age: The Children’s Business Fair

One of the most exciting parts of the Sparks program is our annual Children’s Business Fair, a real-world entrepreneurial experience that empowers even our youngest learners to bring their ideas to life.

Throughout the fall and winter, Sparks brainstorm and pitch business ideas based on their personal interests. After presenting their ideas and receiving feedback, they select one concept to develop further. From there, they begin the process of planning their business—deciding what to make or offer, gathering materials, and figuring out how much it costs to produce and what they should charge.

This hands-on project teaches basic concepts of economics, design thinking, and problem solving in an age-appropriate, high-energy format. More importantly, it helps children learn that their ideas have value—and that they are capable of turning thoughts into action.

On the day of the Business Fair, Sparks set up their booths and sell their products or services to a large crowd of families, guests, and community members. It’s a day full of excitement, real-world conversations, and the kind of learning that sticks. Talking to strangers, explaining their ideas, managing sales—it all helps our learners develop communication skills, courage, and resilience in a fun, meaningful way.

Preparing for the Journey Ahead

Everything we do in the Sparks Studio is designed to nurture the whole child. Through purposeful academics, collaborative play, and real-world experiences like the Business Fair, learners grow in confidence, capability, and character.

By the time they leave Sparks Studio, learners are not only academically prepared for the next phase of their education. They are emotionally grounded, socially aware, and ready to take the next step on their hero’s journey with curiosity and a growth mindset.