1. Welcome to Kindergarten!

2. Kindergarten Mission Statement We recognize that children grow at varying rates We support opportunities for individual growth We stimulate social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development We allow children to learn through hands-on exploration of their physical world We provide a creative and stimulating environment where every child is made to feel safe, secure, and important!

3. Kindergarten Alternatives Half-day will offer morning and afternoon programs Full-day program children will attend regular school day applicants chosen by lottery if numbers exceed available space tuition based Half to full-day combination (Transition) half-day until mid-year tuition based

4. What Does the Research Say  Early studies showed mixed results  1990’s research indicates improved academic achievement/improved social skills for SOME children enrolled in full-day  Teachers in full-day programs do NOT find that children who attend half-day are disadvantaged in first grade.

5.  All research concludes… What children do during the day is more important than the length of their day.

6. Kindergarten Curriculum Taught by skilled staff with strong commitment to professional development All curriculum aligned with State Frameworks Encompasses social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development and fosters self-esteem Utilizes flexible small groupings and individual attention, with limited whole class instruction Provides developmentally appropriate activities that allow for hands-on exploration

7. Half-day Sample Schedule Morning exploration time Large group meeting time, story time Centers and small group activities Special subjects (PE, Music, & Computer –under review ) Recess Dismissal Snack

8. Full-day Sample Schedule Morning exploration time Large group meeting time, story time Centers and small group activities Lunch Quiet time Special Subjects (PE, music, computer, art, library) Centers and small group activities Recess Dismissal Snack

9. The BIG Question  Is my child ready  My child is ready… but I’m not

11. “When I am finished… I will know.” Julia Age 4

13. Thank you for coming… Kindergarten Readiness Skills handout Self Help Skills handout Questions and Answers