The Early Childhood Education Professional

Home

Our Blogs

Kaleidoscope - Dr. Kimberly Gordon Biddle

The Carden Method and Carden Schools

Posted January 1st 2013

The first Carden School began in 1934 in New York City. Now there are Carden Schools all over the nation and in other countries. Each school is independently owned and operated, because Carden is not a franchise. The non-profit Carden Foundation provides training, curriculum, and classroom visits. The training comes in the form of courses, lectures, workshops, and demonstration teaching.

Carden teachers receive training in the educational philosophy and teaching techniques of the Carden Method that was originally developed by Mae Carden. Children may begin at a Carden School at the age of 3 years and stay until 8th grade, depending upon the structure of each independent school. Some unique elements of the Carden Schools are the Carden Reading Method and the fact that the Curriculum includes learning French. Other subjects that children learn at Carden Schools include: Mathematics, Science, History, Art, Music, Geography, and Physical Education. It is important to note that teachers can slightly adapt and augment the curriculum if necessary.

I spoke with a Carden teacher at one of the independent schools. This teacher said that the class sizes at her school are 20 children. If there are more than 20 children then the teacher would have an aide. This particular school has children from age 3 to 8th grade. This teacher teaches 3rd and 4th grade. In the past she has taught prek and 2nd grades.

In the words of this teacher, the pillars of the Carden Method are as follows:

  • Educate the whole child;
  • Each child is an individual;
  • Build on each child’s strengths and fortify each child’s weaknesses;
  • Educate every child; and
  • Teach children in small groups.

She said the Carden Method also emphasizes manners, respect, and responsibility. In addition, morals, ethics, volunteering, and being one’s self are also prominently featured at her Carden School and in her classroom.

This teacher said that the Carden Method works and she has seen many success stories in her 16 years of teaching the Carden method. One time her class was studying the US Constitution and a very delighted father came to talk to her. He said that his son and he had a debate about the constitution and the Supreme Court. He was so happy that his son articulated his points well and was very enthusiastic. Another vivid memory for this Carden teacher is a student who came from another school with oral reading and math difficulties. After 4 months at Carden, the student showed great improvement. The student’s mother came to the teacher with tears of joy. The student was now so excited about oral reading that she wanted to engage in it all the time at home.

A prominent Carden statement is that life is a joy and so should be learning. The teacher I interviewed said that this is true in her school, because they foster a life-long love of learning there. She said that the evidence is in the students’ test scores and the smiles on their faces. The students at her school take the Stanford Achievement Test each year, starting in Kindergarten. The students do well. This is important because this test is aligned with common core standards.

Additionally, the students love going to school. Anecdotally, students at this particular school do very well when they leave 8th grade and on to high school and college. Considering the state of public schools these days, parents may want to consider Carden Schools as an alternative. Especially since their children would be bilingual, would have art, would have PE, would have computer class, and would have music. The small class size of 20 students is a plus, too.

What are your thoughts concerning private schools and public schools? What are your thoughts concerning the specific Carden schools and method?

For more information go to http://www.cardenschool.org .

Reply to the above post

Reply from Brianne Moreno posted on May 19th 2014

I love the idea of private schools! I think that the education at this particular institutions are better than public schools. I feel like teachers at private schools get too comfortable with tenure track and slack off a lot more and do not feel the need to really teach well. They basically teach and do the bare minimum and do what they have to do to keep earning their paycheck. On the other hand, I feel that private school teachers are prone to teach better because they are constantly being watched and their teaching position is not necessarily guranteed. Privates schools, the majority of the time, hire teachers that take pride in what they do and do a pretty good job at teaching students the material they need to know. I feel like people that go to private schools have a little bit more of an advantage than others that go to a public school. I went to a public school and I feel like some of the teachers did not care about teaching the necessary curriculum needed for the next course the following year. In regards to the Carden schools and method, I like their method of teaching. I like how each class has only twenty students and if there are more, then an aid is provided for the teachers so every single student receives a certain amount oof undivided attention and one on one help. I also think that children learn best in smaller groups just because they are less prone to get distracted by other students in the classroom and they can focus more because the teacher can keep a closer eye on them. I do believe that students involved in this method and these schools have higher test scores and things of that sort.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Brianne

Reply from carissa posted on February 14th 2014

There has always been a debate/controversy between public and private schools. My whole life i've gone to public schools yet have had many of friends active in private schools. If you have the means to put your children in private school you should definately go for it. I dont think your child wont be successful if you dont, but I would think great things come from private schools, such as the one on one interaction and attention from the teacher that many public schools lack.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from carissa

Reply from Itza Gonzalez posted on May 20th 2013

It almost seems as this is the "perfect" school to be at. I really like the fact that there are less students in classrooms and that the schools follow their own methods of teaching. I have never had any experience attending private schools, so I can't really speak of any real life stories. The public system is always being criticized and thought of as not good enough. This Carden Method would sound like a good alternative for people who have the money for it. I think it is such a disadvantage that our students need to have the financial resources in order to attend private schools such as the Carden Method schools, and get the extra help they need. These private schools can provide more one on one time giving more time to help the student improve and succeed. It would be nice to say that public schools offer the same resources: extra help, learning new languages, motivation. In the end, it all comes down to money as the problem, which is really sad.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Itza

Reply from Hanna Adams posted on May 20th 2013

I am a small advocate for public schools, I believe that is in part to my positive public school experience. I graduated with my kindergarden playmates and still remains friends today. However, I know that my former experience is not the same for everyone else. So the idea of private school although can be costly, provides a different experience for students depending on their needs. These can be dependent of the location of where a child is raised or specialized learning that you may not be able to see in public school. The Carden School Method provides and interactive and hands on experience to learning. I am a big fan of individualized learning and small ratios in the classroom. This allows for an intimate classroom and a family type atmosphere.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Hanna

Reply from Rebekah Mamola posted on May 19th 2013

I never had personal experience in a private school setting but I think they are very beneficial for families who want their children brought up with specific values or want an alternative to public school. I have family that teaches in the private school setting and they say they much prefer private over public because of the intimacy of fewer students in the classroom and more parent involvement. Public schools tend to have overcrowded classrooms and not enough resources to provide their students the same type of education that private school provides. I had never heard of the Carden Schools until this blog post. I love the teaching philosophy they implement of teaching the “whole child.” I think this is the public school systems biggest flaw. There has been such a push to achieve high scores on the standardized testing that most teachers push academics but neglect nurturing the child socially, emotionally and physically. I believe if the child is taught as a whole, with academics only being a part of curriculum, the child will be better prepared for adulthood and the professional world. I also really like their philosophy of treating every child as individual, and teaching in small groups.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Rebekah

Reply from Jose Lopez posted on May 19th 2013

I personally enjoy private schools. I learned a lot at my private school and was ultimately placed in my private school because I needed more one on one work. I couldn’t read in the second grade and was very behind. The only thing that I later realized was that the teacher requirements are different for private schools. Most of my teachers were either under qualified or going to school to get their undergraduate or credentials. Most of them made for good professors but the skills, knowledge, and social skills that are taught in college, I believe, are essential for success in any type of work space and on top of that, I feel as though the theories and methods taught in an educational program are extremely fundamental parts of being a teacher. The Carden school method seems great. Education does need to be fun and interactive. The french as a second language seems a little irrelevant in respect to the demographics of the United State, specifically California. The small class room setting is great. I feel like it makes for a lot of community among parents and children in and outside of the classroom.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Jose

Reply from Sarah Wortman posted on May 19th 2013

This is too funny, I went to two different Carden Schools. When I was attending I did not think that there was anything too special about it other than the fact that it was a private versus public school. What I learned later was that Carden does have it own unique methods of teaching and its very own standards for curriculum. Class sizes were a lot smaller also, which allowed each of the children in the classes to receive one on one attention. Additionally, all of the teachers that taught at the two I attended had college degrees, a fact that I did not know until I inquired about it later. Being a graduate of a Carden school, I can say that it taught me to look at things through a different lens than I may have if I had attended public school. It provided me with the desire to want to further my education, which I did when I went on to an all girls college preparatory high school. Furthermore, it instilled in me the uniqueness of learning French as a language instead of Spanish. It set me apart from other students and provided me an appreciation for a culture that is not well represented here in the United States.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Sarah

Reply from Karina Cervantes posted on May 17th 2013

The Carden Schools sounds like a great alternative to public schools. Not only is the child in a small sized classroom but they are taught as an individual child. My concern with public school is that they sometimes forget that each child learn differently. The Carden Method seems to be very productive in helping children succeed. Not only that but it also exposes the child to a different language which increased their exposure and interest in other cultures.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Karina

Reply from tina tran posted on May 16th 2013

I have not heard of Carden School but based on these information I believe it would be a great opportunity for students to experience. It is definitely a plus to have a classroom size of 20. I know when I was in school my classroom size would go up to 30 and more and only one teacher. It was hard for the teacher to accommodate everyone. Having a smaller class room is better because there is more one on one teacher and student interaction.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from tina

Reply from Lauren Pettipiece posted on May 16th 2013

I had not previously heard of the Carden method, but I am very impressed with what I have read. With the state of the public school system and the lack of funding, Carden schools sound like a very positive alternative. Even if the public school system was in a better state, I think I would be drawn to this program. I really like the philosophy, the class size, and the curriculum. Additionally, I think it is so great that the Carden Method emphasizes manners, respect, responsibility, morals, ethics, volunteering, and being one’s self. I feel like these aspects can be lacking in many schools, on top of PE, music, and other additional programs. I previously worked at a private, Christian school and I do think that private schools have something to offer that public schools don’t. I’m sure that the staff and teachers at public schools would love to be able to have a lower teacher to student ratio and be able to offer all of the “extras,” but for many, it is just not an option. Even if they may like to place more of an emphasis on manners, volunteering, and respect, many do not have the time or manpower to actually encourage and enforce these things. So to that extent, private schools do have the opportunity and means to provide things that public schools simply cannot. Some students in particular are more likely to “fall through the cracks” and would do much better in an environment where they were more closely watched and a different approach was taken. I know that not every family is able to send their child to private school, which is okay because many children still thrive in the public school program, it would just be great if every all schools able to offer the advantages that private schools are able to.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Lauren

Reply from Erica Jones posted on May 8th 2013

Yes, like many other replies, I like the idea of private school- but realisticlly, public schools should be good enough. Teachers should be paid enough, classes should be small enough, and the children should be grouped by learning needs and style. The STAR testing is stressful for the teachers and children aren\'t getting a well-rounded education. On the other hand, parents are responsible for their children\'s education first and foremost. If the school doesn\'t offer something then it\'s the parents job to facilitate it from elsewhere. As a parent myself, I appreciate my children\'s teachers for what they are able to do. But I ultimately understand it\'s my job to support what they are trying to do for my children.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Erica

Reply from Erica Jones posted on May 8th 2013

Yes, like many other replys, I like the idea of private school- but realisticly, public schools should be good enough. Teachers should be paid enough, classes should be small enough, and the children should be grouped by learning needs and style. The STAR testing is stressful for the teachers and children aren't getting a well-rounded education. On the other hand, parents are responsible for their children's education first and foremost. If the school doesn't offer something then it's the parents job to facilitate it from elsewhere. As a parent myself, I appreciate my children's teachers for what they are able to do. But I ultimately understand it's my job to support what they are trying to do for my children.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Erica

Reply from Lexe Valdivia posted on May 7th 2013

My thoughts are that whether I put my child into public or private, I want to make sure his professor inspires him to learn more and that my child is not to focus on competition meaning to have only high grades. In order for a child to have a good education has to do with what kind of teacher he has. Does he inspire him to go to school and learn more? or does my child hates school or unable to learn due to his professor lack of attention? Yes, I have to agree with comments before me where now in a classroom students are pack and it looks like if teachers do not have the time to focus on each child needs. Furthermore, I remembered when I was in public school that my professor focus way too much into competition and having excellent grades. My private school focus also on passing the exams in order to be accepted at the university. There were times that I hated this because I felt it focus on grades ONLY and NOT on the quality and personality of the student. Dont get me wrong, I believe it is crucial for a student to have good grades, but It should be ONLY focus on gardes. School should not forget to teach moral values and how to be a better citizen. As we know, when we apply for jos, companies dont ask us what is your GPA (at least for the majority of jobs); instead, companies will like to have good hard workers and to have compassion and care for their clients.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Lexe

Reply from Heather Faubion posted on April 18th 2013

I have been working in the field of public education for a while now and while there are things that I love about it, there are others that I do not. First off I believe that there is too much emphasis on STAR testing, it stresses out admin, teachers, parents, and most of all students. Somehow public education seems to have strayed from the primary focus on the child and shinned the spotlight on statistics. Schools within the same districts and other districts are in a constant battle for high status, while children's education is at stake. What I like about public education is that it is free for everyone and children with disabilities will not be turned away (though that may be in fear of a lawsuit, it stands none the less). With that said, what I do not care for about private sectors is that they do have the right to turn away a child who is "out of the norm." While I truly believe that many private schools have a outstanding educational techniques, I do not feel that it is fair to deny any child that high caliper of education. Another aspect that I am not fond of is that while many private schools depend on parent participation, not all families are able to dedicate that kind of commitment. Should a child who lives in a single parent home, who's parent is always working be with held a superb education? Don't get me wrong, I am not saying that all private schools are like this, however, some are, and it saddens me. The Carden Method seems brilliant to me, because it is centered around the child. I would however like to know if they have a special education program available, and how they implement it.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Heather

Reply from Franchesca rivera posted on April 17th 2013

i have always heard controversy between public and private schools. my whole life i've gone to public schools but my older sisters used to attend private schools when they were younger. if you have the money to put your children in private school you should definately go for it. from reading this information carden schools seem much more focus based especially since they only have 20 kids per classroom, so each teacher can cater to each child's needs allowing the children to be more successful. the teacher to kid ratio is important in a classroom setting.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Franchesca

Reply from Shelbi Andrion posted on April 17th 2013

I have strong and personal thoughts about private and public schools. I attended a public preschool, elementary school, middle school, and two years of high school while growing. I was not a straight A student but I was seen as a good student by my teachers and peers. If I struggled with a topic, my athletic ability compensated for it and my teachers would let me pass. I was given the opportunity to transfer to a private high school for my junior and senior year and I decided to make the switch. Upon entering, I needed to take an entrance exam so they would place me in proper classes. I was shocked because the results of those tests showed that I should be taking freshman level classes. I was given two options: first, I could go back to public school or I could be placed in lower division classes that would allow me to graduate high school but would take away my options for college. At that point I decided to attend their school and I accepted the fact that I could only be able to attend a community college. I value the education that is being taught at a private school level. I wish that I was given the same education in my earlier years of school. I think that the public school system needs to revamp their expectations and hold the students accountable to learning the material. Private schools are just not accessible to the general population and that is a major problem. Different levels of education are being taught and it is creating an unfair advantage for those who cannot pay for an education. I like the foundation that the Carden schools follow and the methods they use. Most students do not enjoy school and that’s when they fall behind. If all schools would follow the method of the Carden schools, I believe that students would change their perceptions about school. It would create a positive learning environment for students and the college success rate would significantly increase. All children should be given equal opportunity to succeed, and the Carden schools are a good model to follow.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Shelbi

Reply from Natalie Pulber posted on April 16th 2013

When looking at public schools these days one doesn't see much positiveness. Schools are filled with students and classes that are 30-40 students each. The grades and test scores are below average. The student's themselves barely make themselves come to school and if they do, they just sit around waiting for the school day to be over. However, student's in private schools, especially Carden private schools have higher test scores and grade-point averages. They also have a bigger enthusiasm of going to school and learning. I've went to a public school and it was not a bad experience although not the best one either. There were many student's and just one teacher, and although she tried, she couldn't keep up with all the students. I've also been at a charter/private school and the experience was really different. First, there were 20 and the most 25 students per teacher so the teacher had the opportunity to talk and help each student individually. They also had a lot more options in terms of classes and after school programs students can engage in. In my opinion, Carden schools are a really good idea. They not only have small student to teacher ratios, they have many interesting and educational classes for student's to learn. They also instill in student's a love of learning which is the most important in my opinion. They will take that knowledge and love of learning to higher education which will help them succeed in their future careers.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Natalie

Reply from Christian Solis posted on April 16th 2013

Private schools seem more beneficial because they can cater to a child's specific needs. Whereas public schools are over crowded and teachers are pushed to a specific curriculum that doesn't always help every student. The lack of resources or funding for schools makes it difficult to better educate children. The Caden schools sounds amazing. I think it is sad to see so many schools losing the arts and science. The plus to Caden seems to be that the children enjoy going to school.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Christian

Reply from yixian li posted on April 16th 2013

I really like the Carden method and Carden school to provide such a good service to children. Small ratio study, individual plans and diverse curriculum. Parents all want to give the best to their children. That’s one of the reasons why parents are sending their children to private school. Public schools have limited resources and limited budgets to provide the best to every students. For those parents who are low SES, public school is the only choice for them. To improve the educational environment is a huge controversial topic/problem to implement without the money support. Schools provide the learning environment to students, but students still need their achievement motivation and their parents’ advocates to success in the future.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from yixian

Reply from yixian li posted on April 16th 2013

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from yixian

Reply from Amber McCamey posted on April 11th 2013

Private schools and public schools are very different. I think a lot of the difference between the two are classroom size and money that the school has. Over the last 21 years of my life, I have noticed that the more money that the parents or the school receives for the students, the better education the students seem to get. The family that I currently nanny for has one of their children in a Carden school and from what the young girl (Katie) and her parents tell me, she and they love it. Katie is learning French, as well as other basic elementary school subjects. She is always so excited to go to school and is so intelligent. I think that the Carden school is an excellent choice for education and may be something that I will consider in the future when I have kids.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Amber

Reply from selena v. posted on April 6th 2013

Private and public schools are so different. The experiences children have when learning are also distinct. From what I know private schools do not have to follow any standards or ways of teaching children. Moreover, I believe private schools have higher test score. I believe this this because in private schools children are provided more attention by their teachers. In a private school if children have difficulties with a material being taught in class the teacher has time to help the student in need. The teacher can help the students while teaching them because the classes are smaller, of 20 students. On the other hand, in public schools since the classes are bigger; the students are more likely to score lower on test (state one). Students going to a public school can get the individual help from teachers after school. Children who attends a private school because their parents can afford it may be more likely succeed academically in college than those who attended a public school. The Carden School is one that provides students with academic material needed for 8th grade and higher education. From the reading, I can assume that Carden schools have higher test scores (Stanford Achievement Test). Moreover, children who attend this school I assume have parents who are more involved in their child's quality of education. The Carden Method is a good one, and it helps the teachers to build their strategies to teach. Teachers who are trained and use this method are able to help better their children in the classroom.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from selena

Reply from Stephanie Vega posted on April 4th 2013

I thoughts between a private school and public school is the same to me. Maybe because I never attended a private school? Private school means to me is paying schools to have your children have the BEST education out there with extra 1 v 1 time with the teacher and student. What I question about this question is...Public school does offer the same thing, but without the fundings in my opinion. I never had a problem at my public school. All my teachers were very dedicated to their students and they are STILL willing to stay after school hours to help the students succeed. But again... private school does offer more programs and extra activites to enhance the student performance. For example the Carden School. Even though I love my learning experience at a public, if I was a parent I would want my child to have a even BETTER education than I did. I would definitely choose the Carden School method because who doesn't want their children to have the best education out there

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Stephanie

Reply from Sandy Ngouyaphanh posted on April 3rd 2013

My thoughts about private schools are that it may be good for some but not all. I attended public school a majority of my life and am very appreciative of all the efforts of the teachers and school systems. I was always given individual attention when needed and I picked up after receiving that one on one attention probably because my school didn’t have to worry about no funding in order to have after school programs. Private schools do have its positive aspect of it because regardless of funds those children are going to receive that one on one attention. Smaller classrooms and guaranteed highly trained professionals is what every parent will want for their children. I like the idea of the Carden School method it would definitely enhance a child’s ability to develop. If I were a parent and were able to choose I probably would go with the Carden school method even though my experience through public school was not a bad one.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Sandy

Reply from Rosario Sandoval posted on April 1st 2013

I think is a great opportunity for the students who struggle to get the extra attention and help they need. As a result they don\'t get behind and benefit from the small size classrooms. This is the first time I heard about Carder school and the methods they used. However, private school is not always affordable for everybody. There are families who don\'t have the income to send their children to private school and they don\'t get the help they need in public schools.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Rosario

Reply from ryan almazan posted on March 25th 2013

The Carden Method and Carden schools sound promising to young learners. Unlike public schools, Carden schools provide a curriculum focused at teaching the whole child with things such as a foreign language and art. Carden schools are relatively new to my understanding, and are popping up over the Nation. One favorable aspect of the school is the smaller teacher to student ratio. A one to twenty ratio allows for more student to teacher interaction and a more personal experience for both teacher and the student. From the testimonials, the method sounds very promising. I believe that the children should be able to choose a language, or have the language learning be in Spanish, a prominent language in the United States. One concern would be the availability of the program to children. Issues that factor in would be cost to attend, availability for children from low-income families, or room in classrooms. There is only one Carden school in my area, so availability of a quality program would be crucial. Overall, the program seems to have quality characteristics that include teachers with a continuing education program, a holistic approach to teaching, and small classroom sizes. The program sounds like a great idea, if it produces results it claims to, they should really focus on expanding the availability of their program to more children.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from ryan

Reply from Naomi Araujo posted on March 19th 2013

I am familiar with Carden School and the methods typically used. The well rounded curriculum is highly beneficial to students, especially for those students who need extra help from teachers and peers. Children have the opportunity to interact with children of different ages and work one-on-one with teachers in their small class sizes. Teachers are adamant about promoting a child's love of education through the needs of each student. Teacher's are helpful to students on an individual basis in the classroom when needed. The teachers I have observed at the Carden School in Stockton, are a phenomenal group and very attentive to students, ensuring the student's success. The teachers teach with each child's best educational experience in mind. The blend of students, small class sizes, and everything from music and science to physical education offered, Carden School's offer an exceptional educational experience.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Naomi

Reply from Sandy Do posted on March 14th 2013

I have attended public schools my whole life and I think there are both negative and positive aspects. In public schools, the class sizes are a lot bigger which makes it hard for the teacher to “build on each child’s strengths and fortify each child’s weaknesses.” In private schools, teachers focus on educating every child. Since class sizes are smaller, teachers are able to help each individual student to enhance their learning and development. I like the idea of the Carden Method and Carden Schools. Focusing on the whole child helps each individual student to progress academically and emotionally. I like how the Carden Method does not ignore students who are struggling. Instead they strengthen each child’s weaknesses. When students are given support and attention, they are more likely to enjoy going to school. The class sizes are also a plus and being able to learn an additional language as a young child is beneficial. Lastly, I like how the Carden Method also emphasizes manner, respect, and responsibility. It is important for children to learn these as a child and it will help with their development.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Sandy

Reply from yolanda jh posted on March 6th 2013

My experience with private and public schools have been that there are not necessary all good or all bad, but that it is the administration and the educators who make a school and or classroom successful. My children have gone to both private and public and the key factor was the schools culture. When a school’s culture focuses on educating the “whole child the results are that children will be successful.” That means being mindful of differences in academic and supporting and guiding children through their strengths and their weaknesses. Being respectful of children’s culture and families and working with the families. It makes a huge difference in children’s lives. In many of the classroom and schools that I have worked at and volunteered I see children engaged and enjoying education. Therefore I think that the key to Carden Schools success comes from this one statement “life is a joy and so should be learning.”

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from yolanda jh

Reply from Tanvir Garcha posted on February 28th 2013

In my perspective I feel like in private school the benefits are that you can get more hands on attention for the teacher and you can learn more. Where as public schools, there's a lot more students and less one on one attention with a just one student & a teacher. I love the Carden Method and agree with the different pillars of the Carden Method because all those are so essential to learning. A teacher should educate one child, each child as an individual, build on each child's strengths and help with where they are struggling. Teachers teaching in smalls groups will also make children learn more effectively and each child will get an equal opportunity to learn.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Tanvir

Reply from Linda Soun posted on February 26th 2013

I've attended public schools my whole life and I've had good and bad experiences from it. I noticed a big difference in my peers when I was enrolled in honor courses. In contrast, the regular classes was filled with delinquents and they simply didn't want to be there. Disruptive students really can affect a person's learning environment and it doesn't help when the teacher feels powerless. The community a child lives in greatly influences their learning and who their friends are. I don't know much about the private schools but from where I grew up, some of the students there are actually worse than the students who go to a public school. I like the idea of Carden schools because it seems very structured and successful. Children are entitled to a good education and focuses on the individual. I definitely like the idea of teaching morals and ethics ot children because it is something that needs to be taught. Unfortunately America's public school system is failing our children and it's up to parents and teachers to proactively work together to change that.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Linda

Reply from Mona Dates posted on February 25th 2013

I have sent my children to private christian schools from preschool to 2nd grade. I think it give the child a good foundation, however public schools have a lot to offer as well. I believe that if a parent is active in their child's classroom and works with their children they will have the same positive results with their children as those parents have with their children in private schools. The only difference is public schools do not usually offer a second language unless the child is ESL student. From reading this article it sounds like Carden Schools have an excellent curriculum and the small class sizes are a plus giving the children more one on one attention from the teacher this in turn offers better results for the child.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Mona

Reply from maychee khang posted on February 10th 2013

i like the idea of private schools but they are more expensive and if they sleep at the school, that would mean less time together... public schools are good but they get distracted by peers who do not have the same goals as them.... i like this idea of the Carden school and their methods... if i have kids i would prefer this option for them so they can get a better future and head start.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from maychee

Reply from Nichole Mayer posted on February 7th 2013

I teach prek myself and I love this teaching style. It is similar to what we have as our mission statement. The teaching method is key to my mind in how children view learning and to their success as Learners, not just as students. It seems that public school is very focused on the academics and ignore the rest of children's development. Focusing on the whole child makes so much sense to me and also helps, carries over, to success in academics. When children are supported and allowed an opportunity to achieve progress in skills such as social and emotional growth they feel more confident in other areas of learning. They also become more comfortable with themselves and with peers and are better able to find help and to help others.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Nichole

Reply from Jenn Frates posted on February 6th 2013

I have never heard of Carden schools until this post! They sound very interesting! The things about this type of school that stuck out to me as unique were, 1) class sizes are 20 students maximum. This is wonderful and hard to come by! It's unfortunate now that students have to be crammed into classrooms with 35 other classmates. Smaller class sizes = larger opportunities for individual learning time. 2) They focus on education of the WHOLE child. It's sad to say that some aspects of learning aren't considered "vital" to a child's education anymore and end up being cut from schools (like the arts and physical education). It's nice to know Carden wants every aspect of a child's education to be accounted for! 3) Teaching each child as an INDIVIDUAL. How awesome is this!? If more teachers did this, the success rate of students would sky rocket. 4) There Standard Achievement Tests align with their curriculum. What a concept! I never understood why SAT tests always had bogus information on them that we had never learned before! Kids will EXCEL if they're tested on material they're taught! Overall I think Carden schools sound fantastic. Private schools sometimes get too focused on teaching about religion and neglect state standards. I went to a private school from preschool until 8th grade. Every subject we learned was focused around God. I felt that we already had a subject devoted to Bible and attending chapel, so the other subjects should have gotten the teacher's full, undivided attention without religious undertones. Public schools are good; however, I can see how kids can get lost in the transit. The class sizes are fairly large and teachers tend to teach one specific way and not individualized way for ample learning among many different children. After reading this post, I would definitely look into Carden schools further for my future children!

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Jenn

Reply from Melissa Goodner posted on February 6th 2013

Before reading about the Carden Method and curriculum I had never heard of this way of teaching. It was interesting to hear about how children are encouraged to become life long lovers of learning, I believe that children should be excited about what they learn and do. It's also interesting to see that children are required to take a test from kindergarden on, although I see the importance of assessing where they are at in their grade level I dont think it is a proper assessment of their learning. Another aspect of the Carden Method that I believe is important is the fact that each child is an individual and their weaknesses are addressed in order to help them get the most out of the curriculum.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Melissa

Reply from Paige Sutton posted on February 5th 2013

I have never heard of the Carden method prior to reading this; however, I really like what it has to offer young students. Today, there seems to be more and more program declines, like art, music and the opportunity to learn a foreign language. The fact that this method is offering such a well-rounded approach to learning and the curriculum is wonderful. There is much to be gained from such a curriculum as many students that are musically gifted or great in art are over looked because there are no opportunities given to them to show what they are capable of in such areas. I also really like the fact that there is only twenty students to a class, which gives the teacher that much more time to actually work with every child, independently of the others. Providing such a small student to teacher ratio can only be beneficial and enhance not only the students learning, but give the teacher a greater insight into what their children are actually retaining from the curriculum. All in all, the method seems wonderful, it is just too bad there are not more schools currently using this method, as I feel our educational system as a whole would be much better off.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Paige

Reply from Maria Hernandez posted on February 3rd 2013

I have to admit that this is the first time that I read something about the Carden Method, but based on how it is structured, it seems to be a very good and helpful way of teaching the students. I like the fact that the school focuses on each child as a unique individual, and not as all being the same. I think that this approach of not teaching in the typical traditional way and instead using different teaching styles, benefits all the children who learn in new ways. I think it is wonderful that the Carden schools can actually provide creative courses such as the arts, sports and a second language. Many schools, especially public schools with their current financial situation have had to cut different programs such as sports, the arts, and after school programs. These previous programs are important to help the children develop their creativity skills and their imagination. Many people are now forgetting that being creative is part of our nature, and this skill should be strengthened as well. I do not have a lot of experience about how private schools are structured and what kind of courses they offer, but probably their students’ success is higher than in public schools. Because private schools have other regulations, I believe that parents are more involved in their children’s education. Yet, I think public schools are still good, especially for those of us who cannot afford attending a private one; however, nowadays many public schools have being shifting focus of study. Many of them are now offering fewer courses and only those that will be tested in the standardized tests, which is something that in the long run will end up affecting the students.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Maria

Reply from Jennifer Gutierrez posted on February 2nd 2013

I personally feel private schools have more benefits for a child to thrive. I have never heard of the Carden Method and the schools but as a parent I am now considering this for my own child who is 5 years old. I feel that there should be more options for children like the Carden schools where they can start even before their grade school level. I feel that teachers are able to create bonds and understand the child during a single school year, but if they were able to have the child stay in the same school this long it would have great educational experiences. My main concern for the Carden method would be that families move often and private schools can be expensive. Lower income families wouldn’t have this option unless there was some sort of aid program offered. If there were more private schools such as the Carden the more likely the schools would also become over crowed and the teacher student ratio would not high. I also really liked the principals the school has established respect, manners, and responsibility. I would one day in my career as a future educator work in a school like the Carden or establish my own school. This was very informative and I enjoyed reading it.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Jennifer

Reply from Dawn Powdrill posted on January 31st 2013

The Carden method seems as though its mission is really to focus on each individual child. Therefore, honoring the wellbeing of the class as whole. The idea of working in small groups is a crucial step in connecting with the students, and allowing them more social opportunity. Another great attribute to this method is granting the teachers aids when classes are over 20 students. This enables the teacher to really have an chance to observe and help each child, and not just rush through her lesson doing more disciplining then teaching. I agree with this method, and its focus on a child's strengths in all subjects paving the way for our future.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Dawn

Reply from Jennifer Gutierrez posted on February 2nd 2013

I agree Dawn it is crucial for the children to work in smaller group settings and be able to establish individuality. Although this school would require a lot of extra expensive especially having an aid for assistant of the amount of children exceeds 20. I would love to work in a school like this and would be ideal if public schools had the same student teacher ratios. Sadly in California schools are overcrowded and funds are being cut drastically. My son will be starting Kindergarten in the fall and all four of the schools I visited had 30 to 33 students per teacher and the only extra aid was parent volunteers¡¦ or older grade students. Great post Dawn ƒº

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Jennifer

Reply from Sarah Johnson posted on January 31st 2013

I feel that there are definite pro's and con's to both public and private schooling but it varies dramatically from school to school. I believe both can be incredibly beneficial or hindering under the circumstances. Public school's are often more integrated and diverse than the typical private school so children are exposed to more variety and learn more life lessons in public school. I also think that public school has its draw backs, they are funding directed and more of their activities are directed at pumping out the highest test scores possible and often the child is not put fist. In private school the children generally have more one on one attention and they can may have access for to stimulating activities, also they often teach high moral values. I strongly believe that no matter what school a child attends it is important that the goal is to educate the whole child and not just the math and science part. I feel that education, at all ages, should be interactive and the children should be moving and using their bodies no matter what they are learning. I also think that each child should be treated as an individual and they should be educated in small groups. So, yes, I agree with the foundations of the Carden schools. But i think that integration should be a part of every child's education.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Sarah

Reply from Abigail Castillo posted on January 31st 2013

I like the idea behind the Carden School, and when I have a child some day I would wish they could attend a private school. I believe that the class size of 20 is very beneficial to students. It would be so nice to have those class sizes in a public school. Since the class sizes are small, are students grouped based on their academic level? I think that foreign langauge is good to be taught at a younger age than high school. At a younger age the children are able to pick up on a foreign language faster. I believe that it would be beneficial to the children to learn a foreign language that is popular in their area. What happens whe students move on to high school? Will they be ahead in academics? How will they preform in a larger class setting? My concern is that those students wont be used to it and it will be hard to transition.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Abigail

Reply from Celina C posted on January 14th 2013

I like everything about this curriculum except the foreign language. Of all the foreign languages, why was French chosen? As a resident of California, this state has a rich background in Spanish/Mexican culture which is reflected in the names of the cities in which we reside: Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles, etc.... If the school was in a state near Quebec, Canada, or the east coast, French might seem more practical. Other than that, I completely support a curriculum that helps any child become more well-rounded: what I call a "Renaissance child". It's been awhile since I've been in public school, but choir, p.e., and Spanish were taught. In fact, my classmates & I loved p.e. because we had a ropes course where we had to use problem-solving, teamwork, and physical abilities to climb a telephone pole to jump and grab onto a trapeze, walk blind-folded on a wire suspended a foot off the ground, or help classmates go through a web made of ropes, etc. Oral interpretation events helped children memorize poems to show off in front of the auditorium. Participating in the yearbook staff fostered creativity and running on the school's cross country and track and field teams helped instill school pride. 6th grade science camp meant a trip to the tide pools and 8th grade graduation consisted of a trip to Alcatraz and beating a boy in a race across the Golden Gate bridge, but this was a small, country, public school, many years ago, & policies have probably changed to force teachers to emphasize tests. I really like the fact that this school teaches sight-singing. This knowledge would have been helpful when I went to a public high school and attended choir... It would be interesting to know how they teach math and science. Do they make rube goldberg machines, make and test bridges made out of equilateral triangles and popsicle sticks, examine hydra, and dissect earthworms and frogs?

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Celina

Reply from mary duncan posted on January 10th 2013

The Carden Method and Carden School--Thank you Dr. Biddle for the article. It was indeed very enlighten. My grandson is a student at Carden and it will be a plesure to follow his educational growth. It is my prayer that he is afforded an opportunity to reach his fullest potential and become a well-rounded responsible person. Mom

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from mary

Reply from Elizabeth posted on January 4th 2013

I believe that this school method would help eliminate the use of lots of assessments and testing for all children. Through this method, I think that using anecdotal and portfolios would showcase what children are learning which focus on the whole development of a child. I also think that children do learn better in small groups; however, with funding that is not possible. However, some of these concepts could be applied and children would learn more. I also believe that children develop through everything including electives i.e. PE, art, computer, etc. This allows children that learn differently to focus on their interests making them feel more successful. Again, with public schools the focus is tests and certain subjects which I think contribute to why children are struggling in school.

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from Elizabeth

Reply from LaShelle P. posted on January 4th 2013

private vs public I can relate to both I attended public schools, but i put my daughter in private school where the classroom were smaller in size and she also attended public schools after during high school where she was ready for it. I felt the private school was safety and it was a catholic private school parents volunteer and that was part of the program or you pay a high tuition. The Carden method seem like a good program I would like to see for myself how it is ran or have more information on it. from LaShelle Poe

Reply to the original post | Reply to this comment from LaShelle

Reply from Rosita Villarreal posted on January 2nd 2013

I'm curious to know why we haven't heard from the Carden School before now. I see that the emphasis is largely on the size of the class, and maybe the duration of the teachers, but, hasn't it been proven that teacher/child ratio has a great impact on the child's learning strengths? I believe that the Mission of Carden School is universal. All educators (if not over burdened) have the same responsibilities to the child. With the exception,(not mentioned in this report) that we at our local level reach out to our families and the individual culture of our children. I am encouraged to learn that the Carden method has reported, documented achievement. I look forward to learning more about their method. Thank You for this valuable information.