Exclusive Partnership with
Leading Digital Early Childhood Curriculum:
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Because Otter Learning is focused on maintaining an emphasis on community and diversity at all schools, this curriculum is in no way mandatory or required for all of our schools to follow. We simply utilize it to supplement the curriculum that may already be incredibly successful and impactful at a school. If a school, classroom or community is looking for additional education support, we also utilize Learning Beyond ("LB") to enhance the activities taking place in a classroom.
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ABOUT LEARNING BEYOND ("LB")
Learning Beyond's mission is to offer high-quality, 21st century curricula with online solutions that support and promote the success of today's digital native teachers.
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Learning Beyond (LB) was created by educators with over 300 years of combined experience as leaders in the Department of Education, Early Learning Coalition Directors, NAEYC PD Facilitators, State Curriculum Review Board Members, ELC Professors and Owners, Directors and Teachers who understand the challenges early learning providers face.
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LB's 100% online curriculum was designed to be easy to use, and evergreen. Training is built into daily activities and Professional Development is included the subscription! This is a model that provides a true win for providers, teachers, families and the communities that we serve.
Learning Beyond Philosophy
At Learning Beyond Paper, Inc., we firmly believe that no teacher should be left behind, and our children deserve a foundation of learning from infancy. We are here to do our part. Our philosophy includes:
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Learning Beyond supports new teachers at every step and provides experienced teachers opportunities to expand on learning goals.
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Teachers are facilitators in each individual child’s learning journey. Through intentional interactions, language-rich experiences, and well-planned activities, children will develop the skills necessary to become successful, life-long learners.
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Our developmentally appropriate activities integrate early learning standards such as physical development, social-emotional skills, early mathematics and language and literacy development. Children will develop problem-solving skills through trial and error, questioning, and exploration.
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Our innovative curriculum will develop technology-literate learners with a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) in every Daily Activity.
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Learning Beyond is committed to helping to save our environment for future generations. We will continue to expand our 100% online programs to help providers reduce their carbon footprint. Learning Beyond proudly supports OneTreePlanted.org with on-going donations for worldwide reforestation efforts.
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Continuous improvement is at the heart of Learning Beyond. We will never stop pushing ourselves to bring the best solutions to support educators, the children and families they serve, and the world we live in.
Learning Beyond
Learning Beyond
About Learning Beyond Curriculum
Learning Beyond Customer Testimonial - Shannon, Director
We invite you and your family to come see what we have to offer in person.
We believe that you will quickly understand that Otter Learning schools offer a learning experience that stands out above the rest.
Why STEM Education Matters for Children from Birth Through Pre-Kindergarten
Early childhood education is a pivotal time when children take their first steps into the academic world. It’s also the perfect stage to lay the groundwork for skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—collectively known as STEM.
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The Growing Importance of STEM
STEM fields are rapidly expanding. According to the U.S. Economics and Statistics Administration, STEM careers are projected to grow by nearly 9% between 2014 and 2024, outpacing non-STEM job growth. By introducing STEM concepts early, we prepare children to navigate a future where these skills will be more in demand than ever.
While students in their early years won’t be solving algebraic equations or designing complex engineering systems, introducing age-appropriate STEM activities offers numerous developmental benefits that can spark a lifelong love for these subjects.
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Why STEM Should Start Early
Though much attention has been given to STEM education in middle and high school, research shows that the earlier children are exposed to STEM concepts, the more likely they are to develop long-term interest and proficiency in these areas.
As Bill Nye, the famed “Science Guy,” aptly puts it:
“STEM education needs to be a priority long before a child reaches high school...We have to start even earlier and make sure that the science curriculum in our schools fosters interest in STEM.”
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Three Key Benefits of STEM in Early Education
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Fostering Early Interest: Capturing a child’s interest in STEM early can set the stage for sustained engagement. Research indicates that many students lose interest in science by the fourth grade, and even more by the eighth grade. Starting in Pre-K ensures that curiosity is nurtured from the start, keeping children excited about exploring the world around them.
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Preparing for the Future: Early exposure to STEM can provide children with skills that pave the way for future success. STEM careers often offer higher-than-average wages and are in growing demand. By building a strong foundation early, children are better positioned to pursue careers that are both intellectually stimulating and financially rewarding.
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Role Models in STEM: In early education, teachers serve as some of the most influential role models. When educators express enthusiasm for math and science, children naturally mirror that excitement. Creating a classroom environment where STEM is celebrated helps children see these subjects as fun and valuable.
At Otter Learning, we believe in empowering young minds through hands-on, exploratory learning. Incorporating STEM into our curriculum helps children develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills—all of which are vital for success in any field.
By fostering curiosity and innovation in our youngest learners, we’re not just preparing them for the next school year; we’re preparing them for life.