Parent cafe

Parent Café

In the past as well as today cafés are places where people come together to discuss matters of importance, share theories, philosophy and exchange different points of view. The school is fortunate to offer such a cozy and intimate facility at the ‘Savoorke’ centre: the ‘Parent Café’.

Both formal and informal activities are organized on a regular basis. One of the schools main aims is to support parents in composing a complete picture of today’s children in all their aspects. By addressing a combination of child development theories supported by current research and supplemented with the solid Montessori philosophy, a variety of information sessions are delivered. These give parents the opportunity to understand so much more about the myriad of aspects involved with the construction of the adults of tomorrow. Often these sessions are given in the evening time, but also during daytime whilst the children attend school.

The Parent Library

The Parent Library, carrying a substantial range of titles on child development, is also hosted in the ‘Parent Café’. The space also allows for more informal get-to-gathers. Coffee, a variety of teas, biscuits together with the occasional croissant, and nice company of other parents and teachers in a beautiful ambiance stimulate parents to stay just a little bit longer. This allows people to share observations on their child and find another idea or solution to the queries one might have. It is also a pleasant entry platform for people who have just arrived in ‘The Heart of Europe’, and need to find their way around. Usually all of us leave the café feeling uplifted and energized, ready to tackle another week of challenges.

Further Parent Involvement

Parents who like to be involved on a more practical level working with a group of children can do this as well. Independently the different centers organize activities evolving around the normal day-to-day routine. The possibilities vary.
In the Children’s Houses this can involve presentations of a particular culture (music, dress, food), art and craft activities or projects, excursions and little outings, or music performances.
Such an involvement also applies to the children and students of Primary and Middle School. It can take the form of regular reading practice, helping with the preparation for the yearly show time, taking small groups of children at their outings, or giving one or more guest lectures addressing a specific interest or strength.

Yet another group of parents are involved in a pro-active manner with the organization of a very successful, high quality Christmas Art Market and the yearly Flea Market together with Traditional Flemish Games for young and old.