At The Astor, we believe in nurturing the boundless potential of each child from the earliest stages of life. This week, we are thrilled to introduce a series of enrichment classes focusing on the arts, including Preschool Prep, Music and Art, and Dance and Movement! We are excited to embark on a journey that enriches the school days and lays the foundation for lifelong learning and development.

Why Focus on the Arts?

Research consistently shows that early engagement with the arts has a profound impact on children’s development, influencing everything from academic achievement to emotional intelligence. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services describes art in education as “a way of thinking, creating, understanding, and communicating.” Here’s why we’re bringing more art-based activities to our young learners at The Astor:

Cognitive Development

Engaging in the arts from a young age fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As children learn to perform, sing, or play an instrument, they are also learning how to navigate the world around them, making sense of complex ideas through creative expression.

Motor Skills

Activities like dance and creative movement require children to use their bodies in new and challenging ways. This helps refine their motor skills, which are crucial for everything from handwriting to sports and beyond.

Language Skills

Through singing and storytelling, children expand their vocabulary and even improve their primary language skills. The rhythm and rhyme of songs and stories make language learning more engaging and memorable.

Social-Emotional Development

The arts provide a unique platform for children to express their emotions and connect with others. Through collaborative projects and performances, and small group classes, children learn about empathy, teamwork, and the value of sharing their thoughts and feelings.

Cultural Awareness

Art is a reflection of culture. By exposing children to various art forms, we are also opening their minds to the rich tapestry of the world’s cultures, fostering an appreciation for diversity and inclusion from an early age.

What’s Happening at The Astor?

We’re thrilled to introduce a range of art-based enrichment classes designed to spark creativity and joy in our students. From the rhythmic exploration in our dance and movement classes to the expressive power of performance and the melodious journey of singing, our curriculum is tailored to inspire curiosity and a love for learning.

Join Us on This Creative Adventure

As we embark on this exciting new chapter, we invite our currently enrolled and prospective families to join us in celebrating the transformative power of the arts. Together, we can provide our children with a vibrant tapestry of experiences that not only enrich their early years but also set the stage for a lifetime of creativity and learning.

At The Astor, we’re not just teaching the arts; we’re nurturing the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and innovators. Welcome to the wonderful world of creative exploration!

Check out the Winter/Spring 2024 class schedule. The semester starts on March 4th and runs through May 24th. Call (734) 274-5122 or email Chelsea@TheAstorCo.com to schedule a tour or enroll today!