Philosophy
GaragePod® is founded upon a child-led philosophy. We built a culture where children take an active role in pursuing their interests while also teaching each other.
4 Pillars of GaragePod®
Nature and Community are intertwined. Children learn that when they care for the natural world, they also care for the community in which they live. Civic responsibility is an important part of GaragePod®. Our podsters participate in cleaning trash from trails and creeks and also growing veggies to donate to our local food pantry. We currently have a garden program at after school called GardenPod. We are proud to announce that GaragePod composts 100% of our food and is engaged in sustainable practices of waste reduction.
Movement is vital for children's growth. All children need practice with uneven surfaces, climbing up and down hills, balancing atop fallen trees and slippery stones. Movement also includes fine motor manipulation of tools as well as gross motor activities. The pandemic and other cultural changes have affected the spirit of childhood physical development. At GaragePod®, we seek to reclaim and support a risk-taking, fearlessness in children. Children hike, take dance classes, do karate and also balance atop spools in our mud kitchen!
Free Play means that as adults we step back and let children engage in unbridled, imaginative play. Through free play, children inevitably explore social dynamics so they can come together as a group to solve problems. GaragePod® staff is always on-hand to help children navigate conflicts, encourage friendships and build upon the skills of peacemaking.
Creativity is the gem of childhood. At GaragePod®, children have the opportunity to learn an instrument, be an artist, make up games with friends, and be free to be who they are.
