At Laurel Wreath Academy, we believe that every child deserves an enriching, high-quality education rooted in time-tested methodologies. Our classical-inspired education approach is designed to cultivate strong thinkers, articulate communicators, and lifelong learners. By adapting classical education to meet the needs of children with unique abilities and learning challenges, we provide a structured yet flexible framework that builds confidence, critical thinking skills, and a deep appreciation for knowledge.

​

What is Classical Education?

​

Classical education is a centuries-old approach to learning that emphasizes the Trivium—three stages of intellectual development that align with a child’s natural cognitive growth. These stages are:

​

1. Grammar Stage (Foundation – Early Years): Focuses on knowledge acquisition through memorization, storytelling, and rich literature.

2. Logic Stage (Middle Years): Encourages critical thinking, analysis, and understanding cause-and-effect relationships.

3. Rhetoric Stage (Advanced Years): Teaches students to articulate their thoughts clearly, engage in meaningful discussions, and develop strong reasoning skills.

​​

By structuring learning in this way, classical education nurtures intellectual curiosity and provides a solid foundation for lifelong learning, particularly for students who benefit from structured, sequential instruction.

​

Why Classical Education for Children with Special Needs?

​

Many parents of children with special needs worry that a rigorous academic approach may not be the right fit for their child. However, classical education is highly adaptable and can be modified to support diverse learning styles.

​

• Structured Learning: Predictability and order help children with executive functioning challenges stay engaged.

• Multi-Sensory Methods: Classical education includes oral storytelling, visual timelines, hands-on projects, and music to reinforce learning.

• Repetition and Mastery: Concepts are reinforced through cyclical learning, ensuring mastery over time.

• Character and Virtue Development: Classical education emphasizes moral character, resilience, and perseverance.

• Language-Rich Environment: Exposure to great literature strengthens communication and comprehension skills, particularly for children with speech or language delays.

​​

Core Areas of Focus in Classical Education

​

At Laurel Wreath Academy, we infuse classical education principles into our curriculum to create an engaging and meaningful learning experience tailored to our students’ needs.

​

1. Language Arts & Literature

​

Reading, writing, and storytelling are at the heart of classical education. We use:

​

• Phonics-Based Reading Instruction: Helps children decode words and build literacy skills.

• Copywork and Dictation: Strengthens handwriting, memory, and language processing.

• Classic Children’s Literature & Fables: Stories from Aesop’s Fables, myths, and folk tales develop moral reasoning and comprehension.

• Narration & Oral Recitation: Helps children organize thoughts and build verbal communication skills.

​​

For children with language-based learning challenges, these methods provide structured, sequential language development in a supportive setting.

​

2. Mathematics & Logic

​

Mathematics in classical education is designed to build strong foundational skills while developing logical thinking.

​

• Hands-on Manipulatives: Abacus, number rods, and fraction circles for concrete understanding.

• Pattern Recognition & Sequences: Encourages problem-solving and predictive reasoning.

• Mental Math & Oral Drills: Strengthens memory and fluency.

• Socratic Questioning: Helps students think critically about numbers and problem-solving strategies.

​​

These strategies provide essential support for students who need multi-sensory approaches to math instruction.

​

3. History & Classical Studies

​

A classical education provides children with a sense of time, place, and historical context.

​

• Timelines & Visual Aids: Reinforce historical events and sequencing.

• Biographies of Great Thinkers & Leaders: Helps students learn perseverance and character through real-life stories.

• Mythology & Legends: Develops imagination and cultural literacy.

• Storytelling & Living History Activities: Engages children in active learning through reenactments and creative projects.

​​

For children with attention or processing challenges, history is taught in engaging, story-driven ways that make the past come alive.

​

4. Science & Nature Studies

​

In keeping with the classical tradition, science is taught through observation, discovery, and inquiry-based learning.

​

• Nature Walks & Journaling: Encourages sensory exploration and mindfulness.

• Hands-on Experiments: Makes abstract concepts tangible.

• Classification Activities: Botany and zoology studies to enhance categorization skills.

• Great Scientists & Their Contributions: Inspires curiosity and a love for discovery.

​​

These activities are particularly beneficial for children who learn best through movement and hands-on engagement.

​

5. Music, Art, and Latin

​

A hallmark of classical education is the integration of the arts and classical languages.

​

• Chants & Memory Songs: Aid in language acquisition and cognitive retention.

• Drawing & Handcrafts: Improve fine motor skills and creativity.

• Exposure to Classical Music: Enhances auditory processing and emotional regulation.

• Introduction to Latin: Supports vocabulary development and pattern recognition.

​​

For children with special needs, these enrichment activities provide opportunities for self-expression and sensory regulation while reinforcing core academic concepts.

​

A Supportive, Nurturing Learning Environment

​

At Laurel Wreath Academy, we understand that each child’s learning journey is unique. Our classical education program is designed to be adaptable and inclusive, ensuring that every student receives the individualized support they need to succeed.

• Small class sizes for personalized instruction.

• Sensory-friendly materials and structured routines.

• A compassionate, experienced teaching team trained in both classical education and special education.

• Collaboration with therapists and behavioral support staff.

​

Experience the Beauty of Classical Education

​

By integrating classical education with the flexibility and support needed for children with special needs, Laurel Wreath Academy provides an academically rich, nurturing environment where students can thrive. Our approach builds confidence, instills a love for learning, and equips students with the tools they need to grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.

We invite you to visit our classrooms, meet our educators, and see how a classical education can empower your child.

​