# Early Learning
*Early learning*
In our nurturing early learning classrooms, children ages 2-4 develop foundational skills through play, exploration, and discovery while building the confidence they'll need for their next educational adventure.
## Our early learning program recognizes that young children learn best when they feel safe, loved, and free to explore.
In our warm, welcoming classrooms, experienced teachers create environments where preschoolers can develop at their own pace while building the academic, social, and emotional skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey.
We believe the early years are crucial for developing a love of learning. That's why our program balances structured learning activities with plenty of time for free play, creativity, and discovery.
## Age Groups and Class Structure
### K2 (Age 2)
Our youngest learners experience their first taste of school in a nurturing environment designed just for them. With a low teacher-to-child ratio, we focus on:
- Developing independence and self-confidence
- Learning to share and play cooperatively
- Building vocabulary through songs, stories, and conversation
- Exploring colors, shapes, and counting through play
### K3 (Age 3)
In our preschool classrooms, children build on their foundation while preparing for kindergarten. Our experienced teachers help students:
- Develop pre-reading skills through phonics games and storytelling
- Practice writing readiness with fine motor activities
- Explore mathematical concepts through hands-on manipulation
- Learn problem-solving and critical thinking skills
### K4 (Age 4)
Our pre-kindergarten program provides the final preparation for elementary school while maintaining the joy and wonder of early childhood. Students focus on:
- Letter recognition and beginning phonics skills
- Number concepts and early mathematical thinking
- Science exploration and discovery
- Social skills and classroom routines
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## Curriculum Areas
### Language and Literacy
- Phonemic awareness through songs and rhymes
- Vocabulary development through rich conversations
- Story comprehension and prediction skills
- Writing readiness through art and play
- Exposure to diverse books and cultures
### Mathematics
- Counting and number recognition
- Patterns and sorting activities
- Measurement and comparison concepts
- Basic geometry through shapes and building
- Problem-solving through everyday situations
### Science and Discovery
- Nature observation and exploration
- Simple experiments and predictions
- Seasonal changes and weather patterns
- Living things and life cycles
- Hands-on investigation of materials
### Social Studies
- Community helpers and their roles
- Family traditions and cultures
- Friendship and cooperation skills
- Understanding rules and routines
- Celebrating diversity and differences
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## Special Programs
### Organic Garden Learning
Even our youngest students participate in our garden program, learning about:
- Where food comes from
- Caring for living things
- Seasonal changes in nature
- Healthy eating habits
- Environmental stewardship
### Music and Movement
Weekly music classes help children develop:
- Rhythm and coordination
- Listening skills and following directions
- Creative expression through song and dance
- Fine and gross motor skills
- Confidence in group participation
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## What Makes Our Program Special
**Experienced Early Childhood Educators**
Our teachers understand that young children learn differently than older students. They create warm, nurturing environments where children feel safe to explore, ask questions, and make mistakes. With specialized training in child development, our educators know how to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities while respecting each child's developmental timeline.
**Individual Attention in Small Classes**
With our low teacher-to-child ratios, we truly know each student as an individual. Teachers understand not just what your child is learning, but how they learn best—whether they need to move while thinking, learn through hands-on exploration, or process information through stories and songs. This personal approach helps every child build confidence and develop a genuine love of learning.
**Seamless Transition to Elementary School**
Because our early learning program is part of St. John's comprehensive K-6 education, children experience a smooth progression from preschool through elementary school. K4 students visit kindergarten classrooms, meet their future teachers, and practice elementary school routines, making the transition feel natural and exciting rather than scary.
**Faith and Character Development**
Character education happens naturally throughout our day as children learn to share, help others, and solve problems peacefully. Our age-appropriate chapel program introduces concepts of kindness and service, while daily interactions teach empathy and respect. We partner with families to nurture the whole child—heart, mind, and spirit.
Early Learning Program | Academics - St. John's Day School