Pre-Kindergarten
Our Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten programs are designed for children aged 4 to 7 years. These programs build on the natural curiosity and enthusiasm they bring into their preschool years and then focus on preparing them for kindergarten.
We emphasize emotional readiness and academic foundation to ensure they are well-prepared for kindergarten to give them a strong start as they enter elementary school. Our goal is also to make sure children are not just ready, but excited for their next educational adventure. And remember, we look forward to seeing them for before or after school care and during vacations!
Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum
Pre-kindergarten and preschool curriculums are slightly different and focus on the developmental milestones expected for each age group. Here's how our Pre-K curriculum prepares children for kindergarten:
Curricular Focus and Goals
Pre-K builds upon preschool foundations with a more structured approach, integrating readiness for kindergarten. Lessons emphasize pre-literacy, math concepts, and fine motor skills to prepare children for the academic expectations of school. Pre-K programs are typically more intentional in helping children develop focus and persistence.
Cognitive and Social-Emotional Development
Focuses on building independence, problem-solving, and resilience. Children engage in structured group activities, learn how to follow multi-step instructions, and develop coping strategies for various social scenarios.
Physical Development
While gross motor skills are still important, fine motor development becomes more prominent in Pre-K. Activities like using scissors, writing, and drawing are incorporated to strengthen muscles needed for writing and other kindergarten tasks.
Structure and Daily Routine
Schedules become more structured to prepare children for the school environment, with dedicated times for circle time, center-based learning, and outdoor play. Transitions are more consistent and planned, helping children adapt to a structured routine similar to that of kindergarten.
Language and Literacy Development
In Pre-K, language activities advance to include pre-reading skills, such as recognizing letters, understanding phonics, and even beginning to trace or write letters. These skills form the building blocks for literacy and early reading.
Parent Involvement and Communication
Teachers may emphasize readiness goals and provide parents with resources to support literacy and numeracy at home, like letter recognition games or counting exercises, creating a bridge for families to reinforce learning.
Pre-K Graduation
We love celebrating our pre-kindergarteners with a special graduation ceremony before they head off to kindergarten. Families are invited to join us as our little scholars wear mini caps and gowns, receive their diplomas, and proudly showcase what they've learned throughout the school-year. This cherished tradition honors their hard work and helps them transition confidently into elementary school.
Kindergarten Ready
By the time children graduate from our program, they'll have developed the skills and confidence to thrive in kindergarten.
Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative
Little People's College is a proud partner with New Bedford Public Schools through the Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative (CPPI). This specialized program gives specific pre-kindergarten classrooms community support and resources.
Ready to Learn More?
Want to learn more about our preschool or pre-kindergarten programs or ready to enroll your child? Fill out our contact form, and we'll get back to you with all the information you need to get started.