Preprimary Class
Our preprimary program is designed to be a gentle transition from home to school. Through close cooperation between parents and teachers, the children gradually gain the level of comfort required to separate from their parents without the anxiety often associated with the first school experience. A trusting relationship develops between teachers, parents, and children, which facilitates the healthy growth and development of all members of the learning community.
Children of this age are particularly sensitive to language development, sensorial stimuli, and movement, so their environment is prepared to maximize language and sensory-motor experience. They are able to develop physical coordination, enjoy music and rhythm exploration, and learn in a "big" way, involving their whole bodies.
Use of practical life materials aids the children in developing independence, concentration, coordination, and a sense of order. Children who are ready may participate in experiences with letter-sound association and numeration.
Creative expression takes the form of movement and music indoors, and exploration of nature, art media, sand, and water outdoors. At this stage of development, children love to take long walks outdoors, exploring every rock, leaf, and bug along the way. We encourage them to observe nature, and to interact and create with nature's treasures. Because a small group size is necessary at this stage of development, preprimary enrollment is limited to 12 children.