Preparation for Life

Education in the 21st century must prepare children for living and learning in a rapidly changing and unpredictable world. When we talk with parents and teachers about what skills or characteristics they hope to see in their children as they grow into adulthood, we consistently hear answers that go well beyond academics:

Curiosity. Independence. Resilience. Self-worth. Happiness. Healthy relationships. Creativity. Confidence. Emotional Intelligence. Perseverance.

In order for children to develop these skills and traits, they must first be given the opportunity to practice them. Students at Wildwood are given daily practice with decision making, problem solving, social communication, independent learning, community life, and personal responsibility. Students are expected to be active members of the community and to take responsibility for their own learning. Additionally, students maintain the environment together by taking turns with chores and classroom jobs. We help students learn to communicate respectfully even when they feel hurt or upset, and we work hard to provide respectful redirection and guidance when expectations are not met. Our students know that their ideas have value and that their perspectives matter.

This immersive practice living and working in community with others, learning to take responsibility for one’s self, and discovering one’s own gifts and challenges, lays a strong foundation for students to find success and well-being in whatever path they might take in their future. It prepares them for life.

Check out these parenting resources to give more practice with these skills at home.