Flexibility is the name of the game in preschool. We work within the plans for the day, but deviate when necessary and when teachable moments come along. A typical day usually includes the following activities:
Arrival/Self Selection: Children are welcomed into the classroom. They put coats and backpacks in locker. Take out folders and put in appropriate basket on top of mail cart in class. The children will come and answer question of the day and then choose from a limited number of free choice activities.
Large Group Instruction: A total group experience involving songs, games, finger plays, stories, and discussions relating to the theme of the week. The use of predictable charts, shared reading and modeled writing experiences help to develop auditory discrimination, general vocabulary, listening comprehension and phonemic awareness in a full group setting. The children will have the opportunity to use the interactive whiteboard daily to develop computer skills.
Snack: Children and teachers have an opportunity to eat and drink together and share informal conversation and learn proper table manners.
Small Group Instruction: A small group time, in which the teacher plans instruction to introduce a new skill, carefully observe each child’s work/progress, or integrate subjects in a unique manner.
Learning Centers: Children choose from various learning centers set up throughout the classroom. Children work and play individually and in small groups. Learning centers include games, computer, table toys, science, math, writing, sensory, pretend, building, listening, library and art.
Jesus Time: The children learn that Jesus is their friend and Savior through weekly Bible stories and simple memory verses.
Large Motor/Outdoor Play: An emphasis on activities involving large muscle, both in and out of doors. Social interaction is maximized during structured and unstructured game play. Share Time/Closing Prayer: Children gather as a final meeting summing up the day’s events and providing time for each child to discuss their favorite event of the day and plans for the next class period. Teachers and children close the day by praying together.