We believe that it is essential to expose your child to the Arts, therefore we offer a full suite of supplemental classes that are specific to each Gardner School location. Some of the classes that we offer consist of Gymnastics, Dance, Karate, Spanish, Music, Sports Skills and Be Smart Kids Computer Classes. Our faculty members are specially trained in these different disciplines and you will be amazed by how much your child will learn and how much fun they will have doing so. These supplemental classes are available to children 2 to 5 years old.

Be Smart Kids™

Be Smart Kids™ Computer Learning System... a revolutionary way to educate children. More than a decade of research and design has gone into the development of the Be Smart Kids Learning System, an unequaled computer-aided learning process that stimulates every area of the brain during the life stage when children learn best. The system mixes proven learning techniques with contemporary computer technology and adult/child interaction to produce smart kids.

Who benefits: Be Smart Kids maximizes learning for children ages 2 to 5. It is also appropriate for those requiring remedial support or the English Language Learner.

How it works: Our methods develop patterns of learning in young children by systematically leading the teacher and child through a series of structured, challenging yet fun exercises.

What it teaches: The Be Smart Kids Learning System features four progressive curriculum levels to meet a child's evolving capabilities and learning needs. The Be Smart Kids program helps young children excel in reading, vocabulary, music, math, logic, and basic Spanish. They also learn values, visual/spatial skills, and become confident users of the computer.

How it's taught: The child begins with 30-minute lessons that are taught weekly. The lessons progress in frequency as the child advances toward school age. Be Smart Kids Levels 1-4 includes 700 teaching modules taught over a two to three year period.

Results: Children who successfully complete all four levels of the program historically test at the 4th grade level upon entrance to the 1st grade. *

* Based on national average scores of 1st grade students taking the TerraNova test during November. National average is 1.3. Be Smart Kids' students average 4.2.

Gymnastics

Our Gymnastics program will teach each child gymnastics and fitness in a fun atmosphere and will pro-actively enhance his or her self-esteem. Each class includes basic gymnastic skills starting with calisthenics, eye-hand coordination games, music and rhythm, and cooperative activities and child friendly floor stunts. We provide all of our own equipment and class sizes are small to optimize learning.

Music & Drama

Our Music & Drama program encourages creative expression through living stories inspired by the children, puppetry, storytelling, theater games, exercises and ensemble building. Students experience the joy of sharing a collaborative creative piece with their peers and will also participate inan annual performances for parents and friends. Productions we have had in the past include Annie, The Wizard of Oz and The Sound of Music.Our Music program will introduce your child to the musical world of instruments through our trained instructor who will foster their artistic growth. From playing the piano to learning Rhythm on different instruments carefully chosen by their instructor, your child will find this learning experience to be fun and entertaining.

Dance / Ballet

Our Dance / Ballet program emphasizes learning at the dancers own pace and in a supportive, encouraging and positive atmosphere. We incorporate themes like "Story Time Dance" wherein your child will discover dance through classic fairy tales and their favorite storybook characters which is creative and fun. Ballet and tumbling skills will be incorporated to bring out the magic of dancing like Snow White or Prince Charming! Books, videos, props, costumes and music will enhance our exciting story time dance adventures. Ballet will also be offered and your child will be exposed to basic knowledge and use of barre technique, rules of posture, combinations of steps, center floor skills, dance terminology and ballet routines.

Spanish

Our Spanish program Hola!, includes lessons appropriate for preschoolers that are organized by topics familiar to the child, such as colors, clothing, food, family, and animals. Lessons will include games, puzzles, songs, chants, and writing activities. Your child will be thrilled to begin learning the foundation of a second language.

Essential Sports Skills

Our Sports Fundamentals program introduces children to the basic skills and fundamentals necessary for a variety of sports. The program builds on athletic skills and sports knowledge in an atmosphere which enhances self confidence and social interaction. The noncompetitive environment allows each student to develop fundamental movement skills as well as stimulate the desire to participate in sports and fitness. Your child will love the numerous sports covered in a team building atmosphere!