Kindergarten
Emergent Curriculum
Our curriculum is focused and directed by the theme of "Similarities and Differences." Children engage in project work that is an in-depth investigation of a particular topic, deliberately focused on finding answers to questions about that topic posed by the children or the teacher. The choice of topics to study emerges throughout the year and is determined in several ways. Topics may emerge directly from teachers' observations of children's spontaneous play and exploration. Project ideas may also come from academic curiosity on the part of the children, social concern of the teacher, or serendipitous events that raise questions to be answered. Ideally, topics selected can be investigated directly by the children in their immediate environment. Project work is in support of the NAEYC's (National Association for the Education of Young Children) position that information must be meaningful to the child in order for it to be remembered and truly learned.
Language Arts
Our language arts curriculum is guided by developmentally appropriate, grade level benchmarks and implemented using a variety of professional resources, including Lindamood-Bell Phoneme Sequencing, Fountas & Pinnell Guided Reading, and Handwriting Without Tears. We offer a balanced approach to literacy that combines reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Reading instruction begins with phonemic awareness (the sounds letters make) and letter recognition. Like all of our instruction, reading instruction is differentiated to meet the needs of and challenge each individual student. Writing instruction begins with fine motor strength and letter formation and includes creative writing projects. Language arts activities occur in a variety of contexts throughout the day and often tie into classroom themes.
Mathematics
Math activities are based on grade level benchmarks and implemented using a variety of resources, as well as materials from professional workshops. The math program emphasizes exploration and hands on activities using manipulatives. Math strands include the following: counting, numeration, patterns, functions and sequences, measurement, money, time, geometry and spatial sense, exploring data and chance, and operations. These strands are explored through a variety of common life applications and often incorporated into classroom projects.
Social Studies
Social studies becomes a part of many cross-curricular projects. Concepts that are covered encourage the child to develop an awareness of herself and others, as she moves from "me to we". We teach an inclusive, multicultural curriculum. Areas covered include self-identity, community, families, holidays/traditions, and special needs.
Free Choice
Our free choice time is reserved for free play and exploration in the classroom. This important part of the program provides opportunities for children to experience independence, choice, and decision making. Taking risks, building friendships, and developing social skills are at the core of free choice time. We emphasize being accountable for decisions, completing tasks independently, managing one's own time, and problem solving. Some activities include art and crafts, dramatic play, building, and computer.
Class Meetings
Class meetings are an opportunity for children to learn and practice communication and problem solving skills. Class meetings are one of the ways in which we focus on building community. Teacher-led discussions focus on relevant issues that arise in kindergarten. Some examples include making friends, entering play situations, sharing materials, and conflict resolution.
