Cognitive Development — The Foundation of Learning
We see cognitive development as a child’s ability to remember, recognize, and use information. These three steps form the basis for all future knowledge and skills.
For example, a child first remembers how to count from one to ten. Then, they recognize the numbers when they see them written. Finally, they use this knowledge by matching each number to a group of objects.
We apply this approach to all areas of learning — letters and sounds, colors and shapes, words and sentences, as well as more advanced concepts in math, science, and languages.
Every stage of learning is built on gradual progression — from recognition to confident application. This helps children not only “know” but also understand how to use their knowledge in real life.
Cognitive activities include daily lessons in:
· Math
· Social studies
· Science
Art Activities
Speech Development and Bilingualism
Speech development begins at birth. Speech is a physical act of self-expression that includes articulation, voice, and fluency.
It also relies on social rules: the ability to create new words (friend — friendly), to build sentences correctly, and to choose appropriate words for different situations.
At around three years of age, these skills develop especially rapidly. Our teachers interact with children constantly, modeling correct speech and grammar so that they can effectively express their thoughts and better understand those around them.
For our students, this process unfolds in a unique multilingual environment. Russian and English are used daily, with French introduced at later stages.
Such an environment fosters flexible thinking, the ability to switch between languages, expands vocabulary, and helps children better understand the structure of speech.
We use a method of conscious immersion: new words and grammatical patterns are reinforced with real-life examples, playful situations, and emotional context.
This helps children not just memorize words, but apply them meaningfully — while also keeping the languages separate without mixing them in a single sentence.
Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor development is not just about holding a pencil or tying shoelaces — it is a key stage that directly impacts a child’s overall growth.
These skills take shape when a child learns to pick up small objects with their fingers, eat independently, assemble puzzles, fasten buttons, and, over time, write.
Often underestimated, fine motor skills form the foundation for many other abilities.
For example, to build a tower of blocks in size order — from the largest to the smallest — a child needs not only to carefully grasp and place each block without toppling the structure, but also to use logical thinking to choose the correct sequence.
We place great emphasis on developing fine motor skills through creative activities, construction play, working with natural materials, and early writing exercises.
This approach helps children gain confident control of their hands, improve coordination, and strengthen the connection between physical and cognitive development.
Gross Motor Skills
Gross motor skills are the foundation for physical confidence and independence.
They involve large muscle groups and are essential for activities such as running, jumping, climbing, balancing, throwing, catching, and playing sports like tennis.
Developing these skills supports healthy growth, strengthens the body, and improves coordination.
Strong gross motor skills not only prepare children for sports and physical education but also enhance posture, focus, and endurance — all of which are important for effective learning.
When a child moves confidently in their body, they approach challenges with more energy and a positive mindset.
Social and Emotional Development
Social and emotional development helps children understand and express their emotions, build positive relationships, cooperate with others, and respect shared rules.
These skills foster self-confidence, empathy, and resilience — forming a strong foundation for successful learning and personal growth.
Our program focuses on developing the following competencies:
• Emotional awareness and understanding — recognizing one’s own emotions and those of others.
• Self-regulation and emotional control — managing behavior and maintaining inner balance.
• Building positive relationships — developing empathy, respect, and kindness.
• Communication skills — learning to listen, express thoughts clearly, and work collaboratively.
• Social adaptation — following rules, understanding norms, and interacting effectively in a group.
We integrate social and emotional learning into daily school life, making it a natural, engaging, and meaningful part of every student’s day.
Art activities include:
· Exploring different techniques — children experiment with painting using brushes of various sizes, sponges, fingers, and unconventional materials (cotton swabs, feathers, stamps), playing with colors, shapes, and textures. This helps develop fine motor skills, imagination, and confidence in their creative abilities.
· Discussing art — we encourage children to talk about how a painting or sculpture makes them feel, what they see, and what they think about it. Such discussions build emotional intelligence, the ability to express personal opinions, and active listening skills.
· Comparing and contrasting works of different artists and styles — by exploring both classical and contemporary art, children learn to identify differences and similarities in composition, color palette, themes, and techniques. This develops artistic taste, attention to detail, and cultural awareness.
