Clariden’s Early Childhood (EC) division is a place spent fostering a love of play, exploration, and learning. We understand that every child is unique and gifted in their own way and, therefore, work to develop the “whole child.” While Clariden offers a rigorous academic program, we also emphasize mental and physical health, relationships, and community.
Project-Based Learning (PBL) is the core of our teaching philosophy. PBL allows our students to acquire a more profound knowledge and understanding of the world around them through active exploration of challenges and problems. At the end of each project, students present their discoveries and new-found knowledge to their parents and peers at our Presentation of Learnings (POLs), museum exhibitions, or gallery walks.
Early Childhood is where your child will be loved and cared for, make lifelong friends, and develop their identity as a learner, innovator, collaborator, and leader. We are thrilled you are considering Clariden for your child and cannot wait for you to join us!
The 2023-24 EC Curriculum form will be available in July.
Project Based Learning (PBL) is the heart of the educational experience at Clariden. Every grade, from preschool to Upper School, builds their academic year around four or more engaging, multi-disciplinary projects. The PBL projects are generated to rigorously address and exceed Texas Curriculum Standards, while incorporating student interests.
Projects are driven by rich, real-world, and relevant research questions. The learning process simulates the way problems are solved in the workforce: through team effort, exploration, testing, and evidence-informed conclusions. Projects combine research, composition, public speaking, and presentation skills. Each project framework includes goals, methods, lessons, timeline and assessments.
The PBL Framework:
- Driving Question
- Learning Outcomes
- Concepts Introduced
- Technology Introduced
- Vocabulary
- Field Study
- Presentation of Learning / Assessment