Kindergarten

where play is a child's work!

The Kindergarten program at Hope is a five-day program.  The hours are from 8:00am-12:00pm.  Children have the option of staying until 2:00pm on MWF for lunch bunch.

We believe children are unique individuals who learn in many different ways and at different paces. Therefore, we offer a variety of experiences, which encourage each child to explore, discover and learn.

The Kindergarten curriculum is presented in a whole language/thematic format, encompassing phonics, writing, poetry, literature, beginning math skills, exploration in art, music, science, social studies and free play.  The children also attend Spanish, Music, P. E. and Chapel each week.

The language arts curriculum is based on the philosophy that children learn through total body response activities, which engage the visual, auditory and kinesthetic learners.  Activities include shared reading, chanting, singing, physical movement and active games that reinforce phonemic sounds in their environment and print.  Journals are used as a tool to engage children in writing the language they are learning.

Math concepts are presented with the use of manipulatives and hands on experiences.  Each math concept is introduced in the concrete and visual and then later explored and expanded upon in a symbolic or abstract format.

Science and Social studies lessons are explored through various thematic units.  The children will have opportunities to make predictions, do experiments, and draw conclusions.  They will learn about the world and people around them.  Periodic field trips are taken to further enhance the learning experience.

The work done in Kindergarten is «CHILD PRODUCT.» This means that it is the child's work, not the teachers.  Discussing your child's work and masterpieces further enhances their learning experience.

The Kindergarten year is fun and exciting.  At Hope we strive to captivate each child and make learning a fun and valuable experience.

We recommend these beginning skills for Kindergarten:

  • Appropriate scissor grip and control
  • Tripod pencil/crayon grip
  • Write name in capital letters (FRED)
  • Recognize and learning to write first name with upper and lower case letters (Fred)
  • Identify and write the upper case letters of the alphabet
  • Identify and write numbers 1-10
  • Follow 3 step verbal directions
  • Actively participate in a large learning group for 20-30 minutes
  • Maturity to work independently or with a small group
  • Independent personal care/hygiene: restroom use; hand washing; nose care; putting on shoes; coat and clothing; opening lunch containers