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Our Philosophy

Learning Comes Naturally

Harmony Learning Community  is based on the idea that the ability to learn is innate. We are born with the drive to experience the world around us, including relationships with other people, and apply our experiences to make decisions about what we want to do in the world.

We have committed this organization to joyfully addressing the following question: Since learning is inherent, what are the ways it is most effectively nurtured in young people?

"It is a miracle that curiosity survives formal education." -- Albert Einstein

Decision Making Opportunities Develop Self-Direction

Participants choose what to do when, with whom, where and how. Adult facilitators ensure that activities are safe, instruct when invited, and coach communication skills.

"True learning -- learning that is permanent and useful, that leads to intelligent action and further learning -- can arise only out of the experience, the interest, and concerns of the learner." -- John Holt

Experiential Learning Integrates Information

We learn well with our hands and our bodies. Instead of only studying ideas in theory, we practice them in reality. Through building, creating, and acting, we develop an understanding of math concepts, practice hand writing, and experience the laws of physics.

"I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand." -- Confucius

Group Learning Experiences Foster Collaboration

Working together helps us develop positive communications ksils, understand our roles in group dynamics, and experience the power of the group to achieve what the lone individual cannot.

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." -- Helen Keller

Conflict Resolution Coaching Improves Communication Skills

Conflict is an opportunity for growth and relationship building. When others model empathy and understanding, we learn to practice techniques that help us to figure out how to all get what we are wanting. Our process includes recognizing and expressing feelings and needs clearly.

"The only difference between stumbling blocks and stepping stones is the way in which we use them." -- Adrianna Doyle

Problem Solving Experiences Boost Self Esteem

Practicing thinking skills involves exploring a concept from different perspectives, recognizing patterns, making connections, and developing multiple solutions for solving problems and reaching goals. Healthy self-esteem is integral to approaching challenges with an open, creative attitude.

"Too often we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve." -- Robert Lewin

A Variety Of Ages Expands The Learning Process

People of all ages learn from one another. Chronologic age can be a factor in compatibility but more important are personalities, levels of development, and types of interests. Our activities can be scaled up or down. People learn much about expected behaviors by modeling the behaviors of their elders and peers. We also learn by watching others practice skills and activities we may want to try.

"Children do not need to be made to learn about the world, or shown how. They want to, and they know how." -- John Holt

Inclusivity Statement

Talking Stick Learning Center seeks to create a learning environment that fosters respect for people across identities.

We welcome and value individuals and their differences, including:

  • race
  • gender expression and identity
  • economic status
  • sexuality
  • ethnicity
  • national origin
  • first language
  • faith and non-faith perspectives
  • age, and
  • ability

Explicit recognition of diversity is understood as a source of strength.

It is from the intersection of our differences that we learn from one another and see our complex world from new and informed perspectives.





Garden Classroom on the farm side of Awbury Arboretum
6336 Ardleigh St, Phila PA 19138

Donations are always needed and welcome.

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Harmony Learning Community © 2022
Spots on Thursdays Still Open

We are looking forward to in person programming in the fall! Harmony has filled up fast but we still have a few spots open on Thursdays for 4 to 10 year-olds. The summer is whizzing by so consider registering now. Please direct all questions to katherine@talkingsticklearningcenter.org. We look forward to hearing from you!

There are changes on the horizon at Talking Stick. We are reorganizing due to the pandemic and are planning in-person programming (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; 9am to 3pm) for 4 to 10 year olds as Harmony Learning Community at Awbury this fall. Registration opens in May. Please check back soon for details or email Katie at katherine@talkingsticklearningcenter.org with questions.

While Math Circle will not be held in conjunction with Talking Stick at this time, Rodi will continue to run classes and can be reached at rodi.steinig@gmail.com.