Social development is a central focus of our program for 4-year-olds. Children learn how to be a friend, to express empathy and compassion and to interact comfortably with people different from themselves. Self-directed play and exploration of materials is a valued component of the program, allowing for cooperative social interaction and supporting children’s construction of knowledge about the world.
Pre-Kindergarten program (part-time)
In our part-time, Pre-Kindergarten program children are free to choose from a variety of both child-initiated and teacher-directed activities including journal writing, block building, language and literacy projects, dramatic play, numeracy development, arts and crafts, science investigation, and community service learning. Students work in small groups, one-on-one, or in large group activities during each class session to share common experiences, stories and songs, while learning to be a responsible member of a community. Other components of the program include weekly visits to the library and art studio, snack preparation, and singing with our music teacher.
The Pre-Kindergarten program is committed to an anti-bias perspective. Care is taken to choose books, music, and classroom materials that reflect a sense of diversity and non-stereotypical images. Issues of social justice are integrated as much as possible into the daily life of the program. Our two Pre-Kindergarten classrooms are housed on opposite ends of our historic campus, with Adventure Yard alongside our main entrance and La Loma Yard on our southern perimeter.
Scheduling
Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Full-time program
Located in La Tierra Yard, our full-time, year-round program for 4-year-olds provides a safe and home-like environment where children develop social and emotional competence. Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills are developed and refined as children participate in a broader community outside their home. Social development is a central focus of our program— children learn how to be a friend, to express empathy and compassion, and to interact comfortably with people different from themselves. 3 and 4-year-olds share this space, which includes several classrooms and a large, sunny “cook-in” kitchen. Activities include block building, dramatic play, art, music, story telling and active outdoor play. First friendships are formed, and children learn about kindness, empathy, and inclusion.
Scheduling
Monday through Friday
Parents may drop their children off as early as 7:00 a.m. and pick them up anytime before 6:00 p.m