A Day In The Life...
SPARK STUDIO
Lower Elementary
Ages ~ 4.5-7
We believe that learning happens everywhere and should not always be confined to four walls.
Even on "studio" days our Spark learners will spend time outside allowing a natural integration with nature.
SCHEDULE
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Mondays
Tuesdays
Wednesdays
Thursdays
Fridays
Full day at the STUDIO in Kennebunk
Full day at the STUDIO in Kennebunk
Full day spent OUTDOORS in Kennebunkport
Full day at the STUDIO in Kennebunk
Full day at the STUDIO in Kennebunk
Get our Essential Info Pack to learn more about our daily schedule.
PROGRAM OPTIONS
5 Full Days
3 Full Days
3 Full Days
1 Full Day
Monday - Friday (waiting list*)
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays (waiting list*)
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays (waiting list*)
Wednesdays (2 spots available for 2024-2025)
*Email kori@actonkennebunkport.org to join the waiting list
PROGRAM SIZE & GUIDES
In the Fall of 2023-2024 we expect to have approximately 10-12 learners.
On Wednesdays, the outdoor day, we expect to have 12-18 learners in this age group and will have 1-2 additional guides depending on numbers.
Guide:
LIZ CLOUGH
Lead Spark Guide
Our Forest Kindergarten learners are enriched with nature.
Learners will:
Be immersed in nature with guides that are knowledgeable & passionate about nature
Spend the day outside regardless of weather & prove their resiliency with a smile after a rainy day
Develop a love and respect for nature
Learn about the natural environment
Engage all of their senses
Build wilderness skills
Build community
IMPORTANCE OF NATURE
We believe that:
Nature is an essential part of childhood.
Not only is it good for their soul, but it's important for kids to take risks, build resilience, and gain confidence in their abilities. Nature provides a source of wonder and inspiration for kids and it's important to realize and respect that the world is bigger than they are.
There is overwhelming research that shows the benefits of nature, among them are:
Physical Benefits
Physical Exercise (improved fitness & lower BMI)
Boosted Immune System (increased expression of white blood cells)
Improved Vision; Lower Rates of Myopia 'Nearsightedness' (esp. in young children with developing eyes)
Increased Levels of Anti-Cancer Proteins
Lower Blood Pressure
Decreased Inflammation
Heightened Motor Control: Balance, Coordination, Agility
Fewer Accidents (i.e. falling)
More Adept in Assessing Risk
Emotional & Intellectual Benefits
Stress Relief: Decrease in Stress Hormone Cortisol
Fosters Moral Development
Improved Self-Awareness & Self-Identity
Increased Resiliency
Improved Critical Thinking Skills
Increased Concentration & Creativity
Improved Short-Term Memory
Increased Relevancy when Learning (esp Science)
Helps Children with Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADHD)
Helps with Sensitivity Issues
A SCHOOL FOR THE 21st CENTURY
A DAY IN THE LIFE
An inside look at the Acton Academy studio in Austin, TX (the first Acton Academy).
Watch the video here
A VIRTUAL TOUR OF ACTON ACADEMY
An explanation of Acton's core beliefs and how the school operates.
Watch the coverage here
DISRUPTIVE EDUCATION
An award winning independent documentary about Acton Academy.
Watch the video here