Preschool Classes (Curriculum and Class Times)

 

Individual Class Curriculum:

Toddler Class:
Our play-based curriculum in the Toddler classroom is filled with a lot of hands-on
exploration through: dramatic play, sensory play, gardening, science exploration, music
and movement, reading and reenacting stories, learning about native wildlife, and art.

Our Toddler program is special for many reasons. For starters, we learn to care for and grow a garden. We have two garden boxes, one for growing flowers and the other for growing herbs.  The children can pinch and pick the herbs to discover their different smells and to practice strengthening hands and fingers.   We also spend a lot of time learning about music through songs and stories, using rhythm sticks, egg shakers and props. My most favorite activity is spending a whole month learning through the literature and illustrations of Eric Carle. The children construct a classroom mural inspired by the story, The Very Hungry Caterpillar.  We learn about the lifecycle of butterflies and even get to observe real caterpillars and butterflies that crawl and flutter in and around the Pre-K’s butterfly garden!

 

3-5 year old Classes:

“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning” (Fred Rogers).  Our classrooms (both indoors and outdoors), are thoughtfully arranged to encourage exploration and the freedom to play.  From the dramatic and imaginative play areas and the sensory, science and literature areas inside each classroom, to the open-ended play opportunities in both the Courtyard area and the Sandbox area, a child has the time and freedom to engage in meaningful play at Grandmother’s House.

Through play, we also provide learning opportunities in the areas of pre-academics; letter and number practice, writing and drawing and listening and following directions.  We model and teach appropriate social and emotional skills to help your child prepare for their future school experiences.  

The students are surrounded by highly distinguished children’s literature.  "I have a good rapport with the children’s librarian at my local library and she has introduced me to some exceptional authors and illustrators," states Mrs. Dottie.  Emily Gravvett, Steven Gammell, Anthony Browne, Antoinette Portis, Jon Klassen, Mac Barnett, Leo Lionni, Michael Hall and Oliver Jeffers are a few of our favorites!  These books are the inspiration for many of our activities, from creating art to practicing counting, and from exploring emotions to learning about the natural world.  One of my greatest joys is to observe my students eagerly ‘reading’ the stories I share with them during our morning together.

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Things to consider when deciding if your 4 year old child would benefit from attending GHCC for the year prior to Kindergarten entrance versus attending Public School TK (turning 4years old on or before September 1).

 

GHCC offers a hybrid outdoor, play based curriculum.  

• GHCC follows a play based curriculum and uses an holistic approach to learning that nourishes a child’s physical, cognitive and emotional development.

• Part time options are available, preserving opportunities for extra-curricular activities and family travel during the week.  

• GHCC is intentional in the way we set up both the indoor and outdoor environment.

• GHCC balances whole group, small group and student initiated instruction.

• Teachers observe meaningful play activities and adapt lesson plans according to student interest shown during class time.

• Small class sizes lead to hands on learning that sparks curiosity and creativity.

• Children learn valuable life skills such as collaborating with others, communicating shared ideas and opinions effectively and develop problem solving abilities. Additionally, these experiences foster a connection between our young learners and their environment 

• Children develop an understanding of their emotions as well as respect for the feelings of those around them. They learn to respond positively increasing their capacity do develop resilience.

• Through risk taking and mastering challenges, children develop skills that enable them to navigate life's ups-and-downs with greater self assurance. 

Questions to consider about Public School TK or other TK programs

• What curriculum is taught?

• What are the hours?

• What does the typical day look like?

• How much free choice/unstructured time do the children have?

• How much time is child-directed?

• How much time is teacher-directed?

• Screen time?

• How is the district reporting and assessing the student? This is important as it is indicative of the districts’ goals and how they teach.

• Is the playground age and size appropriate?

• Do children have access to water play, sandbox play, blocks, a garden?

• Adult to student ratio?

The GHCC Director would be happy to discuss your options.