Philosophy
Philosophy
We believe that children learn through play. In our classrooms, both inside and outdoors, we provide an environment that is rich in play opportunities. Our learning spaces are organized into various activity areas that invite and encourage exploration and discovery. Teaching staff support children’s development of relationships and provide opportunities for children to play with and learn from each other. Staff support children as they practice social skills by helping them enter into, sustain, and enhance play, and practice cooperation skills as they learn to share, take turns, negotiate, and compromise.
We believe each child is developmentally unique and learns at a different pace and style. Each week our staff meets to develop curriculum to meet the individual needs of our students. We want children who graduate from KI Preschool to be ready for continued learning.
Through play, children explore a broad-based curriculum that includes, but is not limited to: literacy, music, drama, creative movement, art, science, math, social studies, technology, Judaics, problem solving, creative thinking, social and emotional development, and both fine and gross motor skill activities.
Creative movement and music develop the body and mind. We are delighted to host weekly movement classes and music classes. Creative movement and music have a number of positive benefits on our students. These benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Developing an early appreciation of the arts
- Exploration of body movements – body parts moving alone and together
- Practicing large motor skills
- Group collaboration
- Developing listening skills
- Discussion of musical elements – ranges, harmony
- Opportunity to play and learn about diverse musical instruments
Judaics and Hebrew language are an integral part of our program. The Jewish holidays are presented in the classroom through stories, music, art, drama, and movement experiences. Children learn about values, such as being kind and taking care of the earth.
Hebrew language is introduced through vocabulary words, blessings and songs. Our rabbi visits each class weekly to supplement the curriculum and further expose our students to Hebrew song and stories.
Shabbat is a rich weekly occurrence at KI Preschool. Children participate by serving as the Shabbat helper and bringing the challah or grape juice. Families are invited to visit and enjoy the Shabbat celebration with the class. The synagogue Rabbis or staff may also come to share in the celebration. Once a month, the school comes together to enjoy “Shabbat Sing” – a school-wide sing along.
Community is one of the strengths of our school culture. Our school hosts family breakfasts, education programs, and fun days. Families are encouraged to get involved with preschool specialty programming, such as dinner in the Sukkah, Purim carnival and model Seder.
Parents are also encouraged to come and share their talents and professions with the classes. We have had parents talk to students about their careers; working in law, medicine, and even the MBTA. We have also had cello performances, baking demonstrations, and parents share about their family’s customs and culture. We are proud to host families from all over the United States and the globe!
Sample Core Day Schedule
| 9:00 am | Drop-off / Table Activities |
| 9:20 am | Choice Time |
| 9:50 am | Circle Time |
| 10:00 am | Bathroom break |
| 10:10 am | Snack |
| 10:30am | Art/Choice Time/Playroom |
| 11:30 am | Wash Hands / Lunch |
| 12:00 pm | Playground |
| 12:55pm | Goodbye Song and Dismissal |