Not all children progress at the same rate. Some children put more attention and energy into cognitive development, while others may be more concerned with making friends (socialization) or performing physical tasks (motor skills). Our selected teachers assigned to the Pre-K program are firmly committed to the creation of an environment in which learning occurs at each child’s pace and individual style. Because the children at this level are the oldest, the largest, the most verbal and the most active, the expectations placed on them by the teachers are higher than in any of our other classes.
Interacting positively with peers, sharing the attention of adults and working well in groups are skills that are critical to achieving kindergarten readiness. To promote this,our curriculum is one where teaching is not telling; teaching is guiding discovery.
Cognitive and language development are promoted through small group projects, which are in-depth studies of concepts, ideas and interests. The children also participate in pre-math activities, art, dramatic play and story and group times. Students at this stage are expected to be able to answer questions about the stories they hear and show some abstract thinking. Responding to “How and Why” questions about a story aids a child to develop reasoning and linguistic skills. The children are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences; to use puppets and to engage in dramatic play as methods to increase their cognitive and language abilities.
Responsibility for one’s self is another important pre-kindergarten skill. In our program, the children are encouraged to assist with carrying their own belongings, setting up cots and blankets for naps, picking up toys after activities as well as other teacher selected “classroom jobs”.
Our large outdoor play area will provide your child many choices as to large motor activities. Teachers use games involving balls of all sizes, running, climbing, jumping, and balance. Bike riding provides exercise and develops balance and coordination. Activities such as using clay, construction projects, hammering pegs, building with Legos and using a variety of materials are important parts of the physical skills development portion of this class.
When your child graduates from our Pre-K program, they should be able to follow sequential directions, exhibit problem-solving skills, ask for assistance if needed, work independently and in groups, explore ideas and most importantly believe that learning is FUN.