Pre-K

Pre-K is a milestone year filled with confidence, curiosity, and preparation for what’s next. At The Gardner School, our teachers guide children through meaningful, play-based learning that builds academic readiness, social skills, and independence. With a curriculum designed around kindergarten preparation, students develop the focus, responsibility, and love of learning that will carry them into elementary school and beyond. Our Pre-K program helps children grow the attention, independence, and social skills they need to feel confident and ready for kindergarten.

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Day-In-The-Life

Each day in Pre-K is a blend of structure, creativity, and leadership. Children grow through purposeful lessons, group activities, and independent exploration that build both academic and social-emotional readiness.

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Morning Activities

Welcoming Routine

Teachers greet each child warmly and review the day’s learning goals, building anticipation and ownership of learning.

Literacy and Language

Daily practice in reading, writing, and phonics helps children connect letters, sounds, and meaning.

Mathematics and Science Exploration

Hands-on activities spark problem-solving, reasoning, and curiosity about how the world works.

Learning Centers

Children explore art, dramatic play, building, and sensory materials in spaces designed to support movement, problem-solving, cooperation, and confidence.

Everyday Connections

Kindergarten Readiness

Students practice following directions, completing tasks, and working collaboratively to build essential readiness skills.

KITE Binders

Keeping It Together Every Day binders introduce organization, responsibility, and home-school connection.

Parent Partnership

Teachers communicate progress, goals, and classroom highlights through Brightwheel updates and parent conferences.

Moments that Matter

From early reading breakthroughs to classroom leadership moments, every achievement is celebrated with care.

Afternoon Activities

Outdoor Play

Physical activity builds coordination, confidence, and teamwork while giving children time to refresh and recharge.

Leadership and Classroom Roles

Children take on meaningful jobs that encourage responsibility, cooperation, and pride.

Music, Art, and Movement

Creative expression brings balance and joy to the day while strengthening cognitive and emotional growth.

Quiet Time

Restful moments provide space to relax and reflect after an active morning of learning and collaboration.

Program Highlights

Our Pre-K program bridges the joy of early learning with the structure of formal education. Teachers combine research-based curriculum, intentional guidance, and hands-on discovery to prepare children academically, socially, and emotionally for kindergarten. Classrooms reflect NAEYC-aligned standards of quality, ensuring a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

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Curriculum Highlights

World of Wonders Curriculum

Our World of Wonders (WOW) curriculum prepares children for kindergarten through developmentally appropriate lessons in literacy, math, and social-emotional learning. Cross-curricular projects and interactive play nurture curiosity and confidence in every child.

Learning Without Tears

This multisensory curriculum builds fine motor and writing skills through engaging, hands-on activities. Teachers help children master letter formation, early math concepts, and emerging digital skills that lay the groundwork for future academic success.

Learning Centers and S.T.E.M. Exploration

Pre-K classrooms are designed for active exploration and inquiry. Children investigate science, technology, engineering, and math concepts through guided discovery, critical thinking, and cooperative problem-solving.

Kindergarten Readiness

Teachers intentionally prepare students for the academic and social expectations of elementary school. Through structured routines, small-group learning, and KITE binders, children practice responsibility, focus, and early study skills in a supportive, engaging way.

Parent Communication

Parents stay connected through Brightwheel updates, KITE binder notes, and teacher conferences. These communication tools ensure families are active partners in their child’s growth and transition to kindergarten.

Optional Enrichment Programs

Pre-K students take part in enrichment classes that extend their learning and creativity. From music and drama to language and movement, each experience builds confidence, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment in preparation for school and life ahead.