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The Institute for Children
PLAY MOUNTAIN PLACE - Play Mountain Place is The Institute's school for humanistic education. Founded in 1949 by Phyllis Fleishman, the school is most influenced by psychologist Carl Rogers and Summerhill founder A.S. Neill. The education program supports each child's intellectual, social, spiritual, and physical identity and development. Students are free to determine their own daily schedule and may choose among a variety of activities. Teachers don't so much instruct as facilitate learning, treating children with unconditional positive regard. CHILD INITIATED CURRICULUM - At Play Mountain,
each student has the freedom to determine his or her own daily schedule
and curriculum. Children learn best by doing, and Play Mountain staff
are trained in identifying "teachable moments" in a child's plan -- when
a child is highly motivated to learn new skills. |
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| PEACE EDUCATION PROGRAM
- This program is in effect on a daily basis throughout the school. Teachers
guide children in peaceful and respectful conflict resolution. Children
arrive at solutions to problems by themselves. Staff also provides safe
anger outlets and helps children resolve any negative feelings that arise
from conflict. These are skills that children will keep and use for the
rest of their lives.
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT CURRICULUM - Within Play Mountain Place, there are 68 trees -- and several treehouses -- on three small city lots. It is important that urban children have a maximum of natural surroundings. The curriculum includes many environmental activities -- growing flowers and food, composting, cooking and preparing food, experimenting to learn about conservation of water and energy, engaging in stories and discussions about the importance of the earth, and learning about the interdependence of species. ANTI-BIAS LEADERSHIP PROGRAM - The Institute's anti-bias leadership program encourages both children and parents to question and challenge stereotypes, prejudices, and biased behavior. It is offered to children in both formal and informal settings throughout the school day. It is also offered to parents and teachers at Play Mountain Place through workshops, discussions, and observation of the program at work in the school.
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Play
Mountain Place 6063 Hargis Street • Los Angeles, CA 90034 (323) 870-4381 • info@playmountain.org |
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