Early Childhood Education

List of 12 items.

• Language Arts

  In our Little Pirates and Pre-K programs students are surrounded by a language-rich environment that fosters awareness of sounds and speech to support natural language acquisition and development. Students progress through carefully crated age-appropriate literary experiences that lead through a comprehensive literacy and language program.    Our goal is to foster a lifelong love of reading and writing.

• Math

  Our students begin their math journey using hands-on manipulatives, music, and rhymes to make math concepts real and meaningful as the children connect to their everyday world. With step-by-step instructions and child-friendly language, the learning activities transform complex ideas into engaging activities that encourage children to be eager to learn math. The math curriculum continues to build throughout the early years, with games and activities reinforcing the concepts taught.

• Science

  The science program in Little Pirates, PreK 4 and kindergarten, emphasizes a hands-on approach that builds an early appreciation for science and environmental issues. These concepts form the foundation for understanding the more complex topics introduced in Lower School and beyond.

• Social Studies

  The social studies program is designed to assist the students in acquiring knowledge about themselves and the world around them, developing an understanding of how they relate to others, and appreciating their place in a global society.

• Spanish

  Spanish is introduced in the early years, so students become familiar with the language from a young age. Dedicating time and effort to teaching the Spanish language and culture enables our students to build empathy and understanding of cultures and languages so that they can see themselves as global citizens.

• Physical Education

  The Early Childhood PE program seeks to develop the student's gross motor skills through developmentally appropriate individual and team skills. These activities are inspired by sportsmanship, respect, and the value of trying your best.

• Innovation Lab

  Technology and its applications in the early years are used to support, enhance, and extend the curriculum. The goal is to expose our students to various applications and programs in the Innovation Lab that spark their creativity so that they can design, build, and solve problems.

• Fine Arts: Music

  Students learn by doing, which is the guiding principle of the early years music program. Children sing and play instruments as they develop their appreciation of the musical world. Our youngest students showcase their talents in class and performances in the Waxlax Theater as they develop their musical skills.

• Fine Arts: Visual Arts

  Little Pirates and Pre-K 4 students embrace the world of visual art within their homeroom. The art experience is ongoing in the youngest grades, with opportunities to showcase developing artistic talents occurring organically across the curriculum.

• Library

  To promote a love of reading, our Early Childhood students visit the school library twice a week so that they have access to the rich array of beautiful books. Students enjoy engaging read-alouds with the Lower School librarian as they develop their appreciation for the printed word.

• Faith

  Early childhood students begin attending the weekly school chapel in the second semester of their pre-K year. The students hear lessons and songs based on biblical teachings during these gatherings.   We encourage respect for the beliefs of others and promote values that unite people rather than divide. Opportunities abound in the classroom to discuss differences and similarities in religious beliefs.

• Academic Learning Lab

  The Academic Learning Lab (A.L.L.) is an inclusive space designed to assist with academic challenges and study support/strategies focusing on student strengths. Students may be referred by teachers, parents, or the student themself. After discussion and evaluation, specific strategies are suggested and supported. Support and resources for the student, parent, and teacher are available, including academic coaching and community references.