Preschool
The Preschool Program is for 3 and 4 year olds. Class takes place Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. with the option to register for three, four, or five days each week. There is an option for half day (8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) or full day (8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.). The emphasis at this age is to maintain a love of learning and preserve the natural curiosity about the world that children possess, while also beginning the introduction to more formal academic activities. Children become familiar with basic concepts in math and language arts. This is also a year of much social growth and development, so importance is placed on guiding children in their interactions with others as they learn to express themselves more clearly and also take the perspective of another.
As they get closer to entering kindergarten, there is a focus on academic readiness for kindergarten with specific goals in each subject area (math, language arts, science, music, the arts, etc.). Developing the learning dispositions and attitudes that make children successful in the classroom is also a big priority (such as confidence in oneself as a learner, the ability to persevere despite frustration, being flexible, etc.). Equally emphasized, the social skills curriculum prepares children to navigate social situations effectively and develop the skills that will allow them to be responsible, thoughtful, and caring.
Special Activities
Special activities are included as part of the preschool curriculum.
Yoga: Jenn McCullogh brings a sense of fun and relaxation to children by introducing them to basic yoga poses and mindfulness. It is an opportunity for children to connect with their breath, build strength and flexibility, and develop a better understanding of their bodies.
Art: Miss Carol’s 30+ years in early childhood, combined with her arts degree background, makes her the perfect teacher to lead children in creative and unique art experiences. Through exploring a broad variety of mediums and techniques, children are encouraged to discover new forms of expression. Children engage in drawing, painting, collage, printmaking, sculpture, and more.
Shabbat Celebration: Teachers lead weekly joy-filled Shabbat celebrations through song, stories, and challah baking. In addition, “The Shabbat Lady” joins our celebrations, adding upbeat song and inspiration.
Field Trips: We know children learn best by being involved in their learning. We plan monthly field trips to support their learning each month. It may include a trip to the apple orchard, farm, zoo, a park, museum, and more. We also invite visitors to come and share their expertise with us. It may include a firefighter, a visit from Nature’s Nursery, a local artist, a dentist, and more.
Music: A music-rich experience for children of singing, listening, and moving is really bringing a very serious benefit to children as they progress into more formal learning. Music learning supports all learning. It’s a very integrating, stimulating pastime or activity. Music is a powerful tool and the benefits of music in the classroom are innumerable. It helps with all areas of a child’s development, including fine and gross motor skills, language and literacy, social-emotional skills, and more.
Hebrew Language: For Jewish children, learning Hebrew offers the keys to both the ancient traditions of their religion as well as life in modern day Israel. Their knowledge and facility with their second language grow with daily instruction, which is reinforced with delightful games, songs, and stories.
