Game of Village
What is learned?
It’s an experiential and hands-on class for ages 8-17. An adaptable curriculum centered around child-led adventures as homesteaders. Providing an environment where they learn through play, creating a miniature village.
What is it?
15 “episodes” overseen by Commissioners (teachers). Undertaking one objective at a time, kids work together to build as a community.
How does it work?
Based in Howard Gardner’s multi-intelligence theory. Kids create a tiny village themselves while learning to use tools, math, spatial, linguistic, and interpersonal skills. Learning about participatory democracy, entrepreneurship, and more.
What do we hope to accomplish?
We hope to accomplish fostering excitement! Teaching new skills! Honing creativity and imagination, which is all too often thwarted in many kids’ educational journey. Learning through play using all the senses.
Where is it?
Located on a 170-acre wooded intentional community between Bastrop and Elgin. We believe learning how to be a community is paramount to fostering teamwork, empathy, and strong social skills. We are almost exclusively an outdoor facility. That means: -bring water with you -you might get dirty -environmental awareness (wild animals, hazards, etc.)
When/How GOV Will Be Offered in 2023/2024:
Next year Game of Village is moving from a one day a week program to an afternoon elective that spans 3 days. This allows us to provide core curriculum 4 days a week, by request of our families.
Monday afternoons your child will have the opportunity to participate in the Game of Village year-long curriculum, and again during electives on Tuesday and Wednesday, allowing them to carry out their work from Monday. This will create create congruency from day to day.
Children who do NOT want to participate in Game of Village can take Garden class as their Monday afternoon elective, and pick from an ever evolving list electives on Tuesday / Wednesday.
