metHODOLOGY

At Affinity Arts, the diversity of ideas and the construction of knowledge occurs through an interdisciplinary program that in practice also flows into a transdisciplinary approach. The school uses innovative methods and pedagogical practice supported by scientific research related to Neuroscience and Education based on brain plasticity and the importance of encouragement, thus providing resources and opportunities for the child to fully develop skills and potentials.

Affinity Arts uses a combination of teaching theories and methodologies, influenced by Loris Malaguzzi, Lev Vygotsky, Maria de Montessori, John Dewey and Jean Piaget, in addition to psychology methods developed by Dr. Rudolf Dreikurs (stimulation of cooperative behavior without punishment or reward) and Dr. Marshall Rosenberg (nonviolent communication).

AMBIENCE

Affinity Arts is located in a prime area of the city. It has been intentionally installed in a house with ample internal space and trees for shade in the outdoors, creating a cozy environment capable of stimulating children's creativity and arousing their sense of belonging.

bilinguALISM

The methodology Affinity has adopted was inspired on the teaching models “Dual Language Program” and “Content Language Integrated Learning”.

​The program promotes an immersive environment in the second language (English for Brazilians and Portuguese for foreigners) with more focus on construction than on instruction, developing communicative proficiency in both languages.

musicalizaTION

Daily classes are based the internationally renowned studies of Zoltán Kodaly and Jacques-Dalcroze. The purpose of offering music is to improve coordination between eyes, ears, mind and body, emphasizing melodic and harmonic awareness, seeking to keep the children's interest active through creativity and playfulness, and encouraging, experimentation, creativity and expression. The school has a grand piano and Musicalization classes are conducted by educators, who are also professional musicians (a classical pianist and jazz pianist).

NOURISHMENT

Affinity Arts values students' health and seeks to influence its school community to develop healthy eating habits. The menus are prepared by a qualified nutritionist, with extensive experience in the school environment. The nutritionist is responsible for monitoring student nutrition and organizing campaigns and actions to promote healthy nutritional awareness.

All meals are prepared in the school's own kitchen. Ingredients are fresh and of high quality. The school also has the support of a multidisciplinary consulting team, which offers gastronomic training, is responsible for supervising production and conducts quality control.

instrument classes

Affinity Arts offers, as an optional service, piano and/or violin lessons for students enrolled in Pre-K and Kindergarten, upon request of their guardians.

Class time configures a total of 40 (forty) minutes a week, normally divided 4 (four) times a week, for 10 (ten) minutes each day. Exposing the student to the instrument for shorter periods of time helps the child focus and facilitates in developing an appreciation and delight for playing. When the relationship with the instrument is fostered, negative associations that could appear with the experience are avoided, such as an excessive obligation towards playing for longer hours that are not congruent with the
child’s age.

Piano lessons are based on these Methods: Hal Leonard, Music for Little Mozarts, Suzuki, Leila Fletcher, amongst others.

As the student shows significant progresses in the classes, he/she may join our Affinity Arts Chamber Orchestra, which is also staffed by professional teachers and musicians.