Why Pre-Kindergarten?

Play: Explore our child-centered room environment

Learn: Nurture emergent literacy by encouraging interest in reading and writing

Pre-Kindergarten provides many opportunities for children to gain the skills necessary for a smooth transition to Kindergarten.  While adhering to the philosophy of Learning Through Play, we are also strong supporters of the importance of Early Literacy. Our program will stimulate your child in the areas of social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and creative growth.  We have a specific educational focus that meets the young learner's developmental needs.  Ample opportunities for interaction with peers and teachers help to develop positive relationships. Our classrooms have wonderfully equipped centers that the children may rotate through as they choose during "Center Time".

Admission

Registration is ongoing throughout the year.  The minimum age of enrollment in the Pre-Kindergarten program is 3 years of age.  A child may enroll prior to the age of three, but may not begin classes until reaching his/her third birthday. Children must be potty trained in order to attend.    

Staff

Pre-Kindergarten operates with a ratio of 1:10, with a maximum of 20 students per class.  Staff includes one salaried teacher and, if enrolment requires it, one salaried Assistant.  Teachers hold either a Bachelor of Education degree or an Early Childhood Education certificate/diploma.  All staff have a valid Child Care First Aid Certificate and current Police Security Clearance.  We appreciate parent volunteers in class, however it is not mandatory.  Volunteers are needed on field trips in order to maintain a safe ratio of adults to children.     

                                                                                               Curriculum

Pre-Kindergarten curriculum is introduced through thematic units of study. Children learn through a variety of activity centers, circle time, and learning opportunities that integrate the following.

Reading Readiness

Math Readiness

Social Studies and Science

Social Skills

Our well equipped classroom includes the following activity centers: puppet play, playdough, large and small blocks, craft center, house, computer station, sand, water, paint easel, manipulatives, puzzles and toy shelves.  "Learning Through Play" is an important part of our philosophy, but it is enhanced with a strong educational component as we prepare children for the next step of their educational journey.

Field trips, gym class and special in-class visitors are also part of the programming.