The Kindergarten program is designed to develop cognitive, social, emotional, spiritual, and physical growth. Learning is active, and the classroom is a special environment designed to foster imagination, discovery, and creativity. Emphasis is placed on development in reading, writing, and math. Science, art, music, computer, physical education, and library are taught by specialized teachers who offer expertise and diversification.
LANGUAGE ARTS
The language arts curriculum in the Kindergarten is fully integrated with all subject content areas. In a balanced literacy approach, immersion in a language-rich environment is joined with structured skill development and an emphasis on the reciprocity of reading and writing.
In addition to daily language arts activities, students meet for small group instruction twice a week to work on a wide range of language skills. The program emphasizes an appreciation of literature and the beginnings of independent reading. Students further develop phonemic awareness and build sight-word vocabulary, learning to make sense of words on a page. When ready, they begin to apply these skills and to enjoy books independently. Stories are read or told as a daily activity as well as during library period. Students continue to learn how to care for and borrow library books. In weekly speech and drama class students work, through creative drama, on role playing and improvisation as well as the basics of focus, posture, projection, articulation, and poise.
MATHEMATICS
The mathematics program seeks to develop an understanding and insight into the patterns of mathematics through the use of concrete materials and hands-on activities. There is an emphasis on thinking and problem solving. Patterning, graphing, and number sense are integral parts of the program. Correct numeral formation is encouraged.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Independence and interdependence, goals, choices, and consequences form the basis of the Kindergarten social studies program. Topics of study include the family, the Community, and the meaning of holidays and multicultural traditions. Learning in this area is connected to language arts, music, and art activities. Field trips in the community and in the larger New York City area contribute to the students’ understanding of the world outside their own environment.
SCIENCE
The science program enables students to become familiar with the skills of accurately observing, clearly reporting, and drawing conclusions from an experiment. Over the course of the year, children will investigate topics such as the five senses, sands and soils, the skeletal system, nutrition, and insects. Instruction takes place in the General Science Laboratory where students learn about lab equipment and safety. Lessons are enhanced by visits to Central Park and topical field trips.
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Religious studies at the Kindergarten level fosters the spiritual dimension in each child. Her own uniqueness is emphasized as she learns more about her role in the family, school, and community. The students explore their world and their lives and are helped to appreciate the many signs of God’s love. They also begin to learn about Jesus and His life. They participate in regular chapel services and prayer rituals.
ART
Art activities are integrated throughout the curriculum, offering visual reinforcement of interdisciplinary topics. It is at this level that students begin visiting the art studios for instruction. Students study art from diverse cultures and time periods and learn about famous artists as they develop their own skills with crayons, markers, paints, collage materials, and clay. Field trips utilize the many possibilities of appreciating works of art in the School’s immediate neighborhood, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Central Park.
MUSIC
Using various genres of music, the Kindergarteners learn to develop their beautiful singing voices. Students’ start internalizing the steady beat found in music and begin rhythm reading. In addition, they also participate in an in depth study of dynamics, tempo and melodic contour. Kindergarteners serve as Leaders of Song for junior chapel and this, as well as other activities, begins their practice of public speaking. Regular participation in assemblies and special programs, encourages the joy of performing.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
“How” and “Where” a body can move are explored through axial, locomotor, and fine and gross motor skills. The students also engage in group games, with and without equipment, to encourage teamwork. At this level, students are introduced to gymnastics. Climbing, tumbling, and balancing activities are encouraged, as well as manipulation of small equipment. Students participate in Lower School Fitness Day in the spring.
HEALTH
Health topics are integrated throughout the curriculum. These include rules to promote safety, responsible self-care, nutrition, fitness, exercise, and awareness of the functions of the body.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES
Laptops and iPads are used to enhance the Kindergarten curriculum. A variety of applications encourage student discovery across the curriculum as well as collaboration and problem-solving.