CAIS

Personal and Social Development

CAIS’ prime focus is the creation of peaceful classrooms where children thrive socially and emotionally—a reflection of the traditional Chinese values of respect and community, and the work of Maria Montessori. Our youngest children experience the joys and rewards of active, hands-on learning in both English and Chinese through activities both developmentally and individually appropriate.

Children develop friendships, learn and refine social skills, and grow as unique individuals in a respectful school community while learning practical life skills and becoming self-confident, responsible and independent.

Math

Children develop an interest in and understanding of basic math concepts, such as numbers, shapes and measurement. They work with Montessori materials and other manipulative materials.

Language

Children receive guidance to reach their potentials in listening, understanding, speaking, and reading Chinese. They progress through a rich environment beginning with oral language and moving on to phonemic awareness, writing and reading in English.

Nature and Culture

Students explore the world around them, studying classroom themes related to science, geography and social studies.

Music and Movement

Artistic and linguistic expression plus cooperative skills develop through singing, dancing, games and playing musical instruments.

Arts and Crafts

Children explore various themes and materials, including traditional Chinese brush painting. Teachers demonstrate techniques and procedures for completing projects. Arts and crafts activities also provide the opportunity for vocabulary enrichment.

Physical Development

CAIS integrates movement into all areas of learning, helping children develop and refine large and small motor skills. Kindergarten students attend weekly physical education class.