Every day in Spark Studio is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build independence, and cultivate joy in learning. Here’s a peek inside a typical day for our youngest learners:
8:00–8:30 AM: Free Play & Drop-Off
Learners arrive and ease into the day with open-ended play. This time is intentionally unstructured to allow learners to warm up socially, explore their environment, and connect with friends in a relaxed setting- inside or outside on the playground.
8:30–8:50 AM: Socratic Morning Launch
Each day kicks off with a Socratic discussion, where Guides pose thought-provoking questions to spark curiosity and reflection. These are never yes-or-no questions—they’re open-ended and designed to build critical thinking and respectful discourse. Topics are often rooted in character development. For example:
- “Is it better to be kind or to be honest?”
- “Should you always follow the rules?”
- “What makes someone a good friend?”
Learners practice listening, taking turns, and sharing ideas as they set intentions for the day ahead. During this time, learners also assign important studio roles—like Meeting Organizer, Kindness Keeper, Timekeeper, or Litter Patrol. These leadership roles help learners contribute to their community, take responsibility, and experience the joy of being trusted with meaningful tasks.
8:50–9:20 AM: Tribe Games
This time is all about community building and collaborative play. Learners participate in structured games and activities—think board games, Magnatiles challenges, partner puzzles, or group relays—that build teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in a joyful way.
9:20–10:20 AM: Work/Play Cycle
Learners choose their starting point: work or play.
- Play is unstructured and child-directed. Whether inside the studio with Legos, art supplies, or imaginative play setups—or outside enjoying nature—this time honors the value of creativity and social development through free play.
- Work focuses on Core Skills: reading, math, and language arts. Learners can choose from a variety of Montessori materials, learning games, or books depending on where they are in their journey.
After 30 minutes, the Timekeeper announces a transition to the other choice. This rhythm supports autonomy while reinforcing responsibility and time management.
10:20–10:45 AM: Snack & Outdoor Play
Learners refuel with a snack and enjoy fresh air and physical movement outside, which helps reset their energy and focus for the next stretch of the day. While this is the designated snack break, learners are welcome to eat whenever they feel hungry throughout the day—another way we support autonomy and listening to their bodies. Often, this time also turns into a joyful extension of play. Whether it’s building a fort, creating games with friends, or simply exploring nature, this mid-morning window is a favorite for curiosity, connection, and imagination.
10:45–11:45 AM: WOW in the World
WOW time is one of the most exciting parts of the day. Based on learner interests, Guides prepare a hands-on project or exploration designed to ignite curiosity. This could be a bubbling science experiment, a collaborative art project, a STEM building challenge, a dive into a historical moment, or a story about a hero who made a difference. It’s all about wonder, discovery, and engagement.
11:45–12:00 PM: Clean-Up & Review
A quick group clean-up and circle time to recap the day’s WOW project and celebrate what was learned or created.
12:00–12:45 PM: Lunch & Outdoor Play
Lunchtime is more than just a meal—it’s a social experience where learners gather to share stories, connect with friends, and enjoy nourishing food at their own pace. Just like with snack, learners are trusted to listen to their bodies and eat when they’re hungry, even outside this designated window. Once they’ve eaten, it’s back to more play, exploration, and movement. Whether they’re climbing, building, or pretending, this unstructured time provides a vital opportunity to recharge, build friendships, and stretch both mind and body. It’s in these free moments that creativity blossoms and community strengthens.
12:45–1:00 PM: Mindfulness
Learners wind down with calming routines like breathing exercises, yoga poses, or guided imagery. This helps regulate energy and prepare minds for the next work cycle.
1:00–2:00 PM: Pop CORE
Pop CORE is an optional Guide-led lesson focused on foundational Core Skills in an engaging and playful way. Learners can opt in to the lesson—like skip-counting games, phonics bingo, or time-telling races—or choose independent work in reading, math, or writing. It’s all about choice with clear, meaningful options. Pop CORE is designed to bring joy and momentum to learning.
2:00–3:10 PM: Brain Break & Second Work/Play Cycle
After a quick movement or sensory break, learners enter another work/play cycle. Just like in the morning, they decide whether to start with focused learning or unstructured play. This flexible structure empowers learners to know themselves and manage their own rhythm.
3:10–3:20 PM: Studio Maintenance
At the end of the day, learners take ownership of their space during Studio Maintenance. Whether it’s straightening chairs, organizing materials, or wiping down tables, everyone pitches in. This isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about community, responsibility, and respect for shared spaces. These moments often spark meaningful interactions: learners negotiating who tackles which job, noticing when someone needs help, or taking initiative without being asked.
3:20–3:30 PM: Reflection & Group Close
Learners gather in a circle to reflect on their day: What did I accomplish? What challenged me? What am I proud of? These moments deepen self-awareness and build community.
3:30–4:00 PM: Outdoor Play & Pick-Up
Parents arrive while learners enjoy one last chance to move and connect before heading home. From start to finish, a day in Spark Studio is filled with intentional opportunities to build independence, curiosity, connection, and joy. It’s a rhythm that honors childhood—and builds the foundation for lifelong learning.
💡 Want to learn more about how Apollo Academy works? Schedule an intro call here or check out our resources here. You can also find us on Instagram @ApolloAcademyTampa.
