Kinder & 1st Grade
Our Kindergarten and 1st Grade Loop:
In Kindergarten, we begin the elementary school journey building community through play and peer relationships. We value the journey of childhood and the space and time to learn these valuable tools. Our units of study connect with the changing of the seasons, with science and nature. Our literacy work supports rich oral language development along with reading ready activities. Math is supported with whole class and small group work.
The child is immersed in "life activities" that support the child's physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development. Activities may include: creative play, watercolor painting, sewing, letter and number writing, math manipulatives, woodworking, nature walks, singing, poems and movement, storytelling, play-acting, and puppetry.
First graders learn to read and write through integrated units. These units include plants, Native Americans, Africa, Solids & Liquids, and Earth Materials. Children learn and express their learning through visual arts, drama, music, and dance. Another important focus in first grade is building number sense through math instruction and games. Social emotional learning is emphasized throughout the school year to create and build a healthy classroom community.
