Daily Rhythm

One of my favourite things about Rowanwood is the fluidity. Not only do the caregivers talk to the kids in such a gentle, harmonious way that diffuses potential stand-offs back into friendly play, the day itself has a natural flow. I feel my son has the rest of his life to be tied to a schedule, and while he loves a certain predictability, Rowanwood allows for the needs of the individual. Somehow, the group all gets organized to do the next activity, or head out to the park anyway, but schedules aren't strictly enforced. Rather, activities flow from one to the next as the kids are ready to move on.
Here is an example of a typical daily rythm:

8am Arrivals. As the kids arrive they play in the Block Corner, Dress-Up Corner, Kitchen Corner etc. Some snack preparation is going on in the kitchen which children can participate in under supervision.

Tidy up song "Clean up, clean up"

8:30-9:00 Welcome Circle – songs, stories, finger games and conversation.

9:15-9:30 Wash up and snacks. Children are seated at the table.

10:30 Activity of the day followed by outdoor play.

11:30 Wash hands, then lunch.

1-3 Naptime or Rest Time (puzzles, books, drawing)

3 Snack and Drink as kids wake up at their own pace. (Gentle waking is tried if kids are sleeping much longer than usual.)

3:30 Outdoor play

4:30- 4:45 Indoor transition

4:45- 5:30 Free Play

6 Tidy up and close.

(Washroom and potty breaks throughout the day as needed by kids and requested by parents.)

*Rowanwood Staff are encouraged to be flexible in the schedule to meet the needs of the children. Programmed play is woven throughout the activities of the day.