April 3, 2011

Program


We teach children a three-step problem solving technique in order for them to settle disagreements amongst themselves.  We believe an adult is necessary as a facilitator to help children solve their own problems not as the problem solver.  If children feel competent in coping with their environment at an early age, they gain the confidence necessary for coping at a later stage. Read more about our TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM

Phonics:  Children are introduced to the phonetic sounds of the alphabet.  Due to sounds heard in everyday speech, phonetic sounds are taught before the names of the alphabet.  This process has proven to be an important element in learning how to read.  Phonics is taught through individual and group lessons using both letters and sounds.

Printing:  The first pre-writing activities are used to develop and strengthen small muscle coordination.  Through the use of eyedropper work, puzzles, tongs and tweezers work, the wrist and hand muscles begin to refine and children gain the pincer pencil grasp.  When the hand muscles are strong enough to hold a pencil correctly and the child is ready, the teacher will present letter printing.  They will begin to learn to write their names, letters and numbers.  We teach children to write the lower case letters first, as these are the ones they see most often when reading.  When printing, we emphasize to start at the top of the line and then go to the bottom.

Mathematics:  Children are introduced to the concept and the symbols of quantities.  Children experience math in its concrete form when working with various pieces of materials.  These exercises provide a deep understanding of the function of numbers and the concrete concepts that will help solve abstract problems in the future.  As the year progresses, children are given a strong foundation in sequencing from 1 to 20, geometric shapes, simple addition/subtraction, measurements and telling time.

Snacks & Lunch: We believe in providing nutritious snacks, this way the child is taught early in life about good eating habits. Students bring their own lunches and drinks. Lunchtime is a good time for students to relax and visit each other. Good manners and cleaning up after eating are practiced.

Nap Time: Naptime is after lunch. It is from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This provides time for the children to rest and prepare for the fun and games in the afternoon.