The Lowell Approach

Lowell's foundation is child-centered, hands-on and inquiry-based.

The Pre-Primary Program encourages independence, yet is structured around well-defined routines. There is freedom within limits, the child as doer. There is a balance between freedom and structure. The structure is in the environment and the schedule. Teachers choose activities and materials and set the schedule; children decide which materials to use for their work. This gives them control and autonomy as they engage in their work. Everything children do is WORK!

Children learn from whatever they do — socially, emotionally, physically and cognitively. Social and emotional development is the primary work of the Pre-Primary children. Teachers are the helpers who spend a major part of the day coaching children and helping children to help themselves, thereby working through social and emotion issues and building self-esteem.