Follow the Child - Invisible Learning - Coyote Mentoring
A community of life-long learners, who embrace a holistic and integrative approach to experience the purposeful flow of life through human relations and the natural world, is empowered to foster compassion, gratitude, connection, awareness, generosity, kindness, self-acceptance, self-trust, self-motivation, self-reliance, local & global engagement, and the responsible embracement of personal and social stewardship of this planet.
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Sol Learning Village is also an eco-village applying regenerative and holistic approaches as a way for collective healing. Using the model of building an eco-village, the community of youth and adults have opportunities to participate in innovative farm and engineering projects. Experimental learning is the pathway, and the nurturing nature-based outdoor farm and wilderness environment offers the children to passionately explore and learn at their own pace. We are dedicated to guide and mentor children and youth in discovering their unique gifts and following their passion as co-learners through the prepared environment and practical tools they need for social, emotional, mental, psychological and spiritual development.
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Located in Fallbrook, San Diego. Sol Gratitude Village creates this learning community offering holistic education through natural world connection, Montessori / Reggio-Emilia curriculum, wilderness / primitive skills, permaculture, animal tending, artistic expressions, entrepreneurial opportunities and creative projects and more. The Village offers a series of farm and wilderness awareness & skills-based series of workshops and camps for ages 3 through 18 years of age and adults.
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Connect with us to schedule a tour, learn more about enrollment, or request for more information.
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Sol Earth - Wilderness Montessori Early Childhood
Ages 3Â - 6
The Montessori early childhood curriculum, also known as the "Children's House" or "Casa dei Bambini," is designed for children between the ages of approximately 2.5 to 6 years old. The Montessori early childhood curriculum aims to foster independence, self-discipline, and a love for learning in young children. At Sol, a dynamic and integrative Montessori & Reggio-Emilia play-based inspired curriculum is offered through the purposeful farm and forest environment to instill curiosity and creativity in the areas of practical life, sensorial, language arts, mathematics, science (botany & zoology) and cultural studies (art, music, geography, history).
Sol Water - Wilderness Farm Montessori Elementary
Age 6 - 11
Montessori cosmic education, also known as cosmic curriculum, is a fundamental aspect of the Montessori educational approach. It is designed to help children develop a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things and their place in the universe. Cosmic education fosters a sense of wonder, awe, and respect for the world and encourages children to see themselves as active participants in the larger cosmic journey.
Sol Fire - Wilderness Erdkinder Farm & Rites of Passage
Age 12-18
Montessori Erdkinder refers to a specific phase or level of the Montessori educational approach designed for adolescents between the ages of approximately 12 to 18 years old. The term "Erdkinder" comes from the German words "Erde" (earth) and "Kinder" (children), and it emphasizes the idea of cultivating a strong connection between adolescents and the natural world. The Erdkinder approach was developed to support education that learning should be tailored to meet the individual's developmental needs of each stage of life in which adolescents are naturally curious, self-directed learners who thrive when given the freedom to explore and learn in an environment that supports their development.
Sol Earth
Ages 3 - 6 Wilderness Montessori & Reggio-Emilia
Primary/Early Childhood
Wilderness skills, nature-based curriculum and Montessori curriculum are all integrative in the learning experience.
The Montessori early childhood curriculum is designed to cultivate a lifelong love of learning, independence, and a sense of purpose in young children. It provides a nurturing and supportive environment where children can explore, discover, and develop to their fullest potential.
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Prepared Environment: The Montessori classroom is carefully designed to meet the developmental needs of young children. It is organized into specific areas, each containing developmentally appropriate materials that are accessible to children at their height. These areas may include practical life, sensorial, language, mathematics, cultural studies, and art.
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Practical Life: The practical life area focuses on everyday activities that develop fine and gross motor skills, promote care of self and the environment, and build concentration and coordination. Practical life activities may include tasks like pouring, spooning, buttoning, polishing, and washing hands.
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Sensorial Education: The sensorial area provides materials that help children refine and develop their senses. Through sensorial activities, children learn to discriminate attributes such as size, shape, color, texture, sound, taste, and smell.
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Language Development: Montessori language materials introduce children to letter sounds, writing, reading, and vocabulary. Children progress from basic phonetic reading to more complex language exercises, including activities for enhancing vocabulary and storytelling.
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Mathematics: The mathematics area includes materials that introduce fundamental mathematical concepts through hands-on activities. Children learn about quantity, numerals, place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and more.
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Cultural Studies: The cultural area covers various subjects such as geography, zoology, botany, history, and cultural diversity. Children explore different cultures, countries, animals, plants, and historical events through engaging materials and activities.
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Arts and Creative Expression: The Montessori early childhood curriculum emphasizes creative expression through art, music, and movement. Children have opportunities for self-expression and exploration of different art mediums.
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Outdoor and Nature Activities: Montessori education places importance on outdoor play and nature exploration. Children often spend time outside, engaging in physical activities and connecting with the natural world.
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Mixed-Age Groups: Montessori classrooms typically have mixed-age groups, with children ranging from 2.5 to 6 years old. This multi-age setting allows younger children to learn from older peers and older children to reinforce their learning by helping younger ones.
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Uninterrupted Work Periods: Children are provided with extended, uninterrupted work periods, during which they have the freedom to choose activities from the prepared environment. This promotes concentration and allows children to engage deeply in their learning.
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Grace and Courtesy: Montessori emphasizes the development of social skills, manners, and respect for others through activities that promote grace and courtesy.​​
Sol Water
Ages 6 - 12 Wilderness Montessori
Lower Elementary (ages 6-9) & Upper Elementary (ages 9-12)
Wilderness skills, nature-based study, farm animals tending, and hands-on farm engineering projects are all integrative within the Montessori & Reggio-Emilia approach of mentoring & guidance in the learning journey.
Montessori cosmic education, also known as cosmic curriculum, is a fundamental aspect of the Montessori educational approach. It is designed to help children develop a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things and their place in the universe. Cosmic education fosters a sense of wonder, awe, and respect for the world and encourages children to see themselves as active participants in the larger cosmic journey. Below are some key components and themes typically found in the Montessori cosmic education curriculum:
Big Bang and Cosmic Timeline: Cosmic education often begins with an exploration of the universe's origins, the Big Bang theory, and the cosmic timeline. Children learn about the formation of stars, planets, galaxies, and the Earth's history.
The Five Great Lessons: The Five Great Lessons are a series of storytelling presentations that serve as the foundation of the cosmic curriculum. They cover topics such as the creation of the universe, the development of life on Earth, the coming of humans, the development of language and writing, and the history of numbers and mathematics. These lessons spark children's curiosity and inspire further exploration of related subjects.
Geography and Cultural Studies: Cosmic education includes a comprehensive study of geography, where children explore continents, countries, cultures, and landmarks. They learn about the diversity of the world's people, their customs, traditions, and ways of life.
Biology and Botany: Children study the natural world, including living organisms, plants, and animals. They learn about the interdependence of life forms and the importance of biodiversity.
History: Cosmic education introduces children to the broad arc of human history, including the achievements of ancient civilizations, the evolution of tools, and the development of societies and institutions.
Geology and Earth Sciences: Children explore the Earth's structure, rocks, minerals, and natural processes such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and erosion.
Astronomy: Astronomy education focuses on the study of stars, planets, celestial bodies, and the solar system. Children may have opportunities to explore the night sky using telescopes.
Ecology and Environmental Studies: Cosmic education encourages children to develop an ecological conscience and understand the impact of human actions on the environment.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Cosmic education promotes interdisciplinary learning, where subjects are interconnected and complement each other. Children are encouraged to make connections between different fields of study.
Hands-On Exploration: Children engage in hands-on activities, experiments, and projects to deepen their understanding of various topics. They may conduct scientific experiments, cultural celebrations, and creative expressions related to their studies.
Community and Social Responsibility: Children learn about their role as responsible global citizens and the importance of contributing positively to their communities and the world.
The Montessori cosmic education curriculum aims to inspire a sense of wonder, curiosity, and respect for the interconnectedness of all things. By nurturing a holistic understanding of the universe, children are encouraged to develop a sense of purpose and agency in creating a better world for themselves and future generations.​
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Sol Fire
Age 13-18 Erdkinder Farm
Sol Wild Within - Wilderness Youth Rites of Passage
Wilderness skills, nature-based study, farm animals tending, hands-on farm engineering projects and entrepreneurial opportunities are all integrative within the Montessori & Reggio-Emilia approach of mentoring & guidance in the learning journey.
Erdkinder Montessori, also known as Montessori Erdkinder, refers to a specific phase or level of the Montessori educational approach designed for adolescents between the ages of approximately 13 to 18 years old. The term "Erdkinder" comes from the German words "Erde" (earth) and "Kinder" (children), and it emphasizes the idea of cultivating a strong connection between adolescents and the natural world.
The Erdkinder approach was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian educator and physician, who believed that education should be tailored to meet the developmental needs of each stage of life. Her educational philosophy is based on the idea that children and adolescents are naturally curious, self-directed learners who thrive when given the freedom to explore and learn in an environment that supports their development.
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Hands-On Learning: Erdkinder classrooms emphasize experiential and practical learning. Adolescents engage in real-life projects and experiences, such as farming, gardening, cooking, carpentry, animal husbandry, and community service.
Integration of Academics and Life Skills: Erdkinder education integrates traditional academic subjects (e.g. mathematics, science, language arts) with practical life skills, social skills, and emotional intelligence.
Community and Social Interaction: Adolescents work collaboratively in mixed-age groups and participate in community activities. The Erdkinder environment fosters a sense of responsibility, independence, and interdependence.
Connection to Nature: As the name suggests, Erdkinder Montessori emphasizes the connection between adolescents and the natural world. Students often spend time outdoors, engaging in environmental studies and sustainable practices.
Personal Development: The Erdkinder phase recognizes the importance of personal growth and self-discovery during adolescence. Students are encouraged to explore their interests, passions, and potential career paths.
Preparation for Adulthood: Erdkinder Montessori aims to prepare adolescents for adulthood by equipping them with practical skills, critical thinking abilities, and a sense of social responsibility.
Guidance from Educators: Erdkinder educators serve as guides and facilitators, offering support and mentorship to help adolescents navigate their learning experiences.
It's essential to note that while the Erdkinder phase is an integral part of the Montessori educational approach, it is not universally available in all Montessori schools. The availability of Erdkinder programs may vary depending on the specific Montessori school or organization. Additionally, the implementation of Erdkinder education may vary to some extent, as Montessori principles allow for flexibility and adaptation to meet the needs of individual communities and cultures.
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Visit here to learn more about Montessori Erdkinder.​​​