Laternenlauf 2016

Portland KinderschuleSpecial Events

Every year in fall around November 10th or 11th little kids in Germany go out on the streets at dusk holding self-made little lanterns and singing songs for the traditional Laternenlauf (lantern walk). In Catholic regions it is also called a St.Martin’s-Umzug as it happens on November 11th which is St.Martin’s day to honor the saint, who cut his coat … Read More

"We’ve had two children attend PKS and have been so impressed with the stellar education they’ve received. Our kids have not only learned German, they have learned to be self-sufficient, make good decisions, treat others with kindness, listen, and follow directions. PKS has played a vital role in raising our children, due in no small part to the excellent and caring teachers who strive each day to create a caring and creative environment for all of the students. We plan on being part of this wonderful community for years to come.”

Annie S.

Portland KinderschuleQuotes

The Power of Play

Portland KinderschuleClass Time

A recent article in The Atlantic discusses the growing concern among researchers and parents that pushing preschoolers to focus on pre-academic essentials, such as phonics, could actually be decreasing our children’s enthusiasm about school.  The article notes that young children learn best by exploring the world around them in their own way, and by engaging in conversation with adults and … Read More

Faschingsfest 2016

Portland KinderschuleSpecial Events

Faschingsfest is a pre-Lenten celebration that is marked by many different traditions and customs throughout Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The festivities traditionally include parties and parades.  Portland Kinderschule loves to take every opportunity to enrich day-to-day education with celebration of German culture.  We recently took a vacation from our usual curriculum to celebrate Fasching with a play, games, costumes and … Read More

"Our family is one of the few families at Portland Kinderschule without a German speaker in the home. The first year I watched my twins’ ability to understand German, and knowledge of key vocabulary words increase dramatically. This year, I have been amazed to see them grow even further in their knowledge of the language. They use their German willingly in class, and are able create full sentences. I even catch them speaking German to each other at home sometimes. This has been a truly wonderful preschool experience.”

Allison Williams

Portland KinderschuleQuotes