Middle Spiral: Learning Through Trust, Care, and Connection

In the Middle Spiral at School Around Us, learning is rooted in genuine care, trust, and a wholehearted approach to each child’s growth. This is a time when relationships are at the heart of everything we do—and the strong, supportive connection learners build with their teacher, Amy, is essential to their experience.

Middle Spiral learners feel safe to be their authentic selves. They know their voices matter and that they can share thoughts, feelings, and ideas freely. Each child’s unique learning journey is honored and trusted, creating an environment where they can take risks, overcome challenges, and celebrate their progress.

Learning in the Middle Spiral is dynamic and collaborative. When we explore ideas together—building on the children's interests and curiosity—our shared experiences evolve into something greater than the sum of their parts. We live the learning, and we look forward to it every day.

The Middle Spiral

Ages 8 - 11

Wonderment, Curiosity & Adventure

Academics Through Experience and Engagement

At School Around Us, academic learning is woven into meaningful, hands-on experiences that activate all the senses and honor diverse learning styles. We believe that when learning is playful, immersive, and purposeful, it sticks—and students thrive.

Mathematics in Motion

Math is brought to life through quests, interactive games, building projects, and real-world challenges. Whether designing a structure, managing a budget, or playing math-based simulations, learners develop a personal relationship with numbers and discover their own problem-solving style in a way that feels relevant and fun.

Reading & Writing for Joy and Connection

Literacy is nurtured daily through read-alouds, creative writing, journaling, and shared reading experiences. Reading books together—with a physical book in hand and peers by your side—creates deep connections to language and storytelling. Learners not only build reading and writing skills but also develop a lifelong love for literature and self-expression.

Thematic Learning in Science & History

Science and history often serve as the backbone of our integrated themes, which are guided by essential questions and designed to engage the whole child. Through role-playing, storytelling, and immersive projects, learners step into the past or dive into the natural world.

From reenacting a voyage on the Mayflower—complete with packed “suitcases” and dramatic sea journeys—to conducting hands-on science experiments outdoors, our themes turn content into lived experience. This type of learning builds curiosity, empathy, and a deep understanding of the world around us.

The 8–11 Year Olds: Growing Friendships, Emotional Insight, and Emerging Responsibility

At School Around Us, we recognize that ages 8 to 11 are a powerful stage of social and emotional development. Learners at this age are deepening their friendships, expanding their imaginations, and becoming more emotionally aware. We create an environment that supports their growing independence while nurturing the empathy and confidence they need to thrive.

Friendship & Play

Friendship is central to life in this stage, and learners need plenty of time for play and shared learning experiences. Their games and imaginative play become more complex and immersive, offering opportunities to collaborate, create, and strengthen bonds with one another.

Emotional Awareness & Communication

This is a time when children begin to better understand the complexity of their emotions. With structured guidance, they learn how to name their feelings, express them with care and kindness, and reflect on what those emotions are trying to tell them. These foundational skills support healthy relationships and personal well-being.

Empathy & Ethical Thinking

Learners are beginning to take the perspective of others with more depth and clarity. They are curious about fairness, justice, and the world beyond themselves. We support this natural development with learning experiences that foster empathy—both within our school community and in connection with the broader world.

Independence, Confidence & Self-Talk

As they gain more independence, learners also begin to see themselves through new lenses. With that growth can come self-doubt or internal judgments. We help them build positive self-talk, take healthy risks, and face uncertainty with courage and support.

Responsibility & Giving Back

This is also a beautiful time to introduce responsibility in more meaningful ways. Learners at this age are capable of contributing to their families, classrooms, and wider communities. Whether through small volunteer efforts or initiating projects, they begin to discover the joy of giving back and being an active part of something bigger than themselves.