StM News

At St. Martin’s Episcopal School, learning begins long before a child can read or write. It begins with curiosity, imagination, and joyful exploration—especially in our youngest learners at George Cottage.

Our newly renovated 10,000-square-foot outdoor playground was intentionally designed as more than a place to play. It serves as an extension of the classroom, supporting a child-centered, nature-based learning environment inspired by the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy.

Children as Protagonists in Their Learning

In the Reggio approach, children are seen as protagonists—capable, curious leaders who actively construct their understanding of the world. On the playground, this comes to life as students invent games, build stories, test ideas, collaborate with peers, and explore their surroundings through movement and play.

Even our two-year-old students demonstrate remarkable creativity and independence as they navigate the space. Their play is imaginative, self-directed, and deeply meaningful—laying the foundation for critical thinking, communication, and social-emotional growth.

Teachers Who Observe, Listen, and Follow

At George Cottage, teachers are not directing play—they are observing carefully, listening closely, and following each child’s curiosity. By paying attention to children’s interests and questions, teachers know when and how to introduce new concepts, vocabulary, and challenges that extend learning naturally.

This responsive approach allows learning to unfold in authentic ways, honoring each child’s pace and passions while nurturing confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

The Environment as the Third Teacher

A cornerstone of Reggio-inspired education is the belief in the environment as the third teacher—alongside the child and the adult. Our renovated playground was designed with this philosophy in mind, offering open-ended materials, natural elements, and varied spaces that invite discovery, collaboration, and wonder.

Every pathway, structure, and gathering place encourages children to explore relationships—between ideas, materials, nature, and one another. The environment itself becomes an active participant in the learning process.

A Strong Start at St. Martin’s Episcopal School

At St. Martin’s, early childhood education is purposeful, joyful, and rooted in respect for children’s capabilities. George Cottage provides a nurturing beginning where play is meaningful, learning is deep, and curiosity is celebrated every day.

For families seeking a Reggio-inspired, Episcopal early childhood program that values imagination, exploration, and whole-child development, George Cottage offers a place where children thrive—starting from their very first school experience.