MPC's Little Lobos Academy offers a warm, engaging environment where young children learn through play, exploration, and connection. Our approach nurtures curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning—supporting each child’s unique development every step of the way.
Outdoor-Based Learning in a Built Environment
Children at the Little Lobos Academy spend a large part of their day outdoors in secure, well-equipped courtyards, patios, and learning gardens. These environments support movement, creativity, and sensory exploration.
Emergent, Play-Based Curriculum
Our teachers observe children closely and use their ideas and interests to shape projects and classroom activities. Children learn through storytelling, construction, inquiry, sensory play, and cooperative problem-solving.
Our Influences in Practice
- Reggio Emilia: Collaborative projects, teacher-child partnerships, documentation
- Waldorf: Daily rhythms, nature-based materials, imaginative storytelling
- Montessori: Independence, real-life tasks, child choice within structure
A Sample Full Day Schedule for Children
- 8:00 AM - 9:15 AM: Arrival & Choice Time (75 mins) [Breakfast Window (8:00 AM - 8:20 AM)]
- 9:15 AM - 9:30 AM: Morning Meeting (15 mins)
- 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM: Free Choice Play (75 mins)
- 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM: Outdoor Exploration (60 mins)
- 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM: Family Style Lunch (45 mins)
- 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Rest & Quiet Time (90 mins)
- 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM: Afternoon Choice Time (75 mins) [Snack Window (2:00 PM - 2:15 PM)]
- 3:00 PM: Departures Begin
- 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM: Outdoor Extended Play (75 mins)
- 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Departure & Reflection (30 mins) [Afternoon Meeting, packing personal items, and dismissal.]
*Specific schedules will vary by class.