1st and 2nd grade

Main pedagogy principle: "Let's share!" 

Insigne Castors montrant une frimousse de castor

The Otters form a colony that includes both girls and boys. The colony is a space where children strengthen their self-esteem, nurture their faith, create friendships, and learn to respect nature.

The children are gathered in "lodges" of 4 or 5 under the watchful eye of an Otter leader. The Otter law, "the Otter has fun with respect and sharing", implies that one has fun while respecting others, following instructions, and taking care of the materials. The notion of sharing provides an opportunity to develop altruism skills and reduce egocentric tendencies common in this age group.

In addition to the 5 goals of exploration, Otter activities take into account 4 areas of development:

  • Motor development: Teaching children to know when to stop and improving their fine motor skills.
  • Intellectual development: Helping children think for themselves, explore, and conduct experimental verifications. It is also an opportunity to better understand space and comprehend class inclusions.
  • Social development: Egocentrism is still prevalent among Otters. Through play, beavers learn to compromise and develop a sense of belonging, reinforced by the uniform and common practices of the colony.
  • Moral development: Promoting awareness of what is good, a sense of justice, and the ability to empathize.