Arrival

Children arrive, hang their coats, find their name tag and select a cubby. They have the opportunity to share with or show something to the teacher. There is a short free-play period followed by a group clean-up.

This routine allows the children to practice following simple directions. They begin to recognize their name and the different letters that make up other students names. The teachers greet each child, making them feel welcome and special. Sometimes they might encourage a hesitant student by asking a question or inviting them to see something in the classroom.

Carpet Time

Teachers and children gather to talk about the month and any activities or special days in it, while referencing a large class calendar. They discuss the weather, what types of clothes you wear in this weather, changing seasons, etc. During carpet time they sing the school and flag song.

This more structured time is a great place to practice taking turns speaking, sharing ideas and physical space, while recognizing and learning to respect others. Reviewing the calendar leads to discussion and understanding of the context of time and the beginning of number and symbol recognition. The children become more observant of the world around them.

Special Helper

At Carpet Time the Special Helper is announced—sometimes by spelling the child's name. The Special Helper has a chance to lead the class in a discussion and song.

At the end of the day the Special Helper gets to bring the Class Book home to share with their family. This is a favorite—it's filled with pictures and stories about each classmate. Reading the Class Book allows the child to practice classmate's names, read something pertinent to their lives and share their school life with their parents. It also helps parents to put names with faces.

Free Time

During free play period the children may choose an activity reflective of their personal interests. They can work on an organized art project relating to a class theme or explore the book corner. The play "box" might be filled with sand, macaroni, shaving cream, wood chips or water. A variety of toys are available including dress-ups, puzzles, clay, farm animals, puppets, the Jack and Jill Market, and even a car from an amusement park ride. Fine motor skills are developed when cutting, gluing, drawing, creating. Social skills, such as negotiation and cooperation, are practiced when determining which activity to pursue.

Snack

Children practice table manners, patience and conversation. Jack and Jill provides the snack and is mindful of allergies and special dietary requirements.

Story Time

Each day there is a different story. Usually, the book relates to a class theme the children have been working on. Some days, after looking at pictures, everyone will help create a story.

The goal of story time is to foster a love of books. Book discussions are also a time for children to learn to express themselves.

Music and Movement

Making music is part of each day—whether it be singing, drumming, dancing, shaking maracas or ringing bells. The children work on rhythm, melody and timing. Many of the songs are about counting—forward and backward. The children are proud of their ability to memorize songs. Making music together is always a great feeling.

Outdoor Play

The school has a fenced playground, supervised by the teaching staff, that includes swings, slides, climbers, a large sandbox and even a real motor boat. When the children go out to play they practice dressing themselves, following directions, and safety rules.

Special Days

Some other special activities include Father's Night, Treat for Mommy Day, Pajama Day, Stuffed Animal Day, Un-birthdays (summer birthdays) and a Halloween Parade. Special visitors to class might include parents, grandparents, someone from the fire department, police department or library.