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Inside Jill’s Place

Groups

Our English-language program is open to children from 20 months to 8 years old in classroom sizes of 8-12 children. Classes run from 9:00 to 15:00 with optional afternoon activities (dance, drama, Portuguese, music) from 15:30 to 16:20 Monday through Thursday. We serve 2 healthy snacks and one hot meal prepared by our expert kitchen staff.

We provide a personalized approach to learning and teaching. To successfully deliver personalized instruction, our groups are small and with an optimum child:adult ratio. When appropriate, we encourage the different age groups to engage in play and peer-to-peer learning, to develop self-confidence and empathy. Reading is a core activity at Jill’s Place, with older children encouraged to practice their developing skills for their younger peers, who in turn develop active listening skills.

The staff speaks with the children in English, however, we value all languages. We provide developmentally appropriate experiences for all children. Our children interact with their natural environment and our school pets (rabbits, chickens).

Pedagogical Influences

Harvard - Project Zero

Project Zero is a research group at the Harvard Graduate School of Education which celebrated its 50th year in 2017. Founded by Nelson Goodman, David Perkins and Howard Gardner, Project Zero continues to inspire professionals from a variety of fields of study all over the world. 

You can learn more from the websites:

projectzero.edu
howardgardner.com
gse.harvard.edu/faculty/david-perkins

Reggio Emilia Approach

Reggio Emilia is a city near Bologna, Italy, where, since 1945 the municipality has built beautiful schools filled with light and inspiration for children between 0 and 6 years of age. The image of the child is at the center of their approach. Children learn through projects supported by their caregivers, who share the roles of teachers and learners.

Check out the Reggio Emilia website:

reggiochildren.it

Daily Schedule

Our daily schedule is from 9:00am – 3:00pm.                    Children may arrive from 8:15am without additional charge. Our special activities included in our 9:00am – 3:00pm program are:  Art, Movement, Music, Nature, Cooking, Library Time, along with early primary school skills (counting, writing, reading).

Our extra activities  (Music, Drama, Dance and Beginner Portuguese) are available from Monday to Thursday  from 15:30 until 16:20

Daily Activity Report

Every day, the teachers write and photographically illustrate an overview of the day’s activities, to communicate with families what the children did that day at Jill’s Place.  Through our interactive App, Parents receive regular updates on their child’s activities.

Weekly Activities

Library is a daily ritual.

Our weekly special activities include art, movement, music, nature, cooking and storytelling.

Project Book

Every child receives a personalized photographic book at the end of each  year filled with photos and text documenting the child’s experience at Jill’s Place as an individual and as a member of a community.

"At Jill’s you feel part of the family from day 1. A very welcoming and nurturing environment where each child is truly unique and will be given the opportunity to blossom."
"Jill Hichwa leaves an indelible mark on her students. She prepares them for the world with an attentive kindness and encourages curiosity and playfulness."
"Jill's Place was not only my children's home for their early years but our family's as well."
“Jill’s Place has a very special place in our hearts. My two sons were very happy there, the staff were always warm and caring and we always looked forward to Jill’s welcoming smile."
“Thank you for being such a wonderful part of our lives!”
"Jill provided a crucial foundation for the children and continuous guidance for us as parents, as we navigated the world of parenting."
"Jill “personifies everything that one would imagine a teacher and educator should be – a giant heart that goes over and beyond to make sure every child is happy, thrives and can be the best version of themselves!”
“I want to express my deepest appreciation to Jill for creating an environment where the kids can truly flourish and express themselves, knowing their talents will be nurtured and developed.”
“You and your team were absolutely incredible in turning our children’s schooling experience around to something they loved, and creating memories to this day they, and we still cherish.”
“Jill’s love and care for the children go far beyond her duties. Her guidance and support on parenting practices have helped us navigate the challenges every first-time parent encounters.”
“At this school, there is a lot of love, effort, and dedication for each child, respecting their learning and integration pace.”
“At Jill’s place we found an extension to our home environment. A place where our two children are cared like family, teachers and caretakers that became friends, all of this in a cozy loving house that offers a touch of nature, a touch of wildlife and a secure space for teaching and learning.”
“We will be forever grateful for the time we’ve spent at the school and hope to stay friends with the school community.”
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