Enrichment Programs
The Arts
Visual and performing arts are an integral part of the Charlottesville Day School curriculum. Actively participating in the arts helps students develop self-confidence. The arts also encourage creative self-expression and provide unique opportunities to learn about world cultures. In addition, our arts curricula is designed to reinforce and compliment what the students learn in mathematics, social studies, literacy, and science.
ART
The art curriculum, based on masterpieces by well-known artists, opens up children’s worlds and minds. In addition to learning art history and developing an appreciation for art, CDS students learn techniques to create their own art. Children learn the concepts, principles, and elements of art and experiment with a variety of media to develop their own creative processes. Teachers encourage and embrace each child’s creativity and individuality as students construct their own masterpieces.
DRAMA
Theatre activities and drama exercises teach students to feel comfortable with public self-expression of feelings and ideas. Children learn to take creative risks, developing self-confidence and self-awareness as they learn to express themselves creatively through voice and movement. Students have the opportunity to perform for others, both in the classroom and in larger productions.
MUSIC
At CDS, music education begins in preschool. The music curriculum is taught in a non-competitive environment and emphasizes exploration, appreciation, creativity, self-expression, and enjoyment. Children learn the basic elements of music and enjoy age-appropriate activities such as clapping, chanting, dancing, and other rhythmic movements. Older children incorporate reading and writing activities to develop musical literacy. All students are actively involved in music-making through voice, body percussion, movement, and musical instruments. Students learn the history of music and hear the works of legendary musicians and composers.
Foreign Language
Foreign language learning in preschool and the elementary grades improves listening abilities, memory function, creativity, and critical thinking skills. The CDS foreign language curriculum is proficiency-based and integrates speaking, reading, writing, listening, and cultural activities. Instructional games and task-based instruction encourage interaction and communication in the target language. Authentic oral language and reading practice, including songs, rhymes, folktales, cartoons, and popular media build proficiency and help children develop a cultural appreciation. The CDS foreign language program complements classroom instruction in math, science, social studies, and language arts.
The Wellness Connection
Fitness and wellness education at CDS encompasses mind, body, and spirit. Under the expert guidance of CDS teachers and certified ACAC professionals, children are exposed to programs beyond the scope of traditional physical education. In addition to the core curriculum, students participate in martial arts, sports conditioning, team building, and sportsmanship classes. CDS students engage in activities that enhance the mind~body connection and create greater self-awareness. Benefits include refined motor skills and articulation, increased body awareness, ability to manage stress, and increased concentration and focus. CDS students learn to demonstrate responsible personal and social behavior in physical activity settings.
While participation in physical activity is part of an active lifestyle, it is only one part of a health-enhancing lifestyle. CDS students recognize the relationship between feeling good and regular physical activity, healthy food intake, and positive lifestyle choices. Healthy, balanced snacks and lunches are available to students during the day. CDS teachers are advocates of fitness and wellness. Because fitness and wellness is a way of life, CDS encourages students to make healthy lifestyle choices in their free time away from school.
At CDS, students attain skills, knowledge, and attitudes that promote life-long health, physical activity, and productivity.
