Excellence in Education |
Preschool Curriculum (Toddlers - Kindergarten) |
| The Preschool curriculum and philosophy at Blair Christian Academy is built upon four important blocks: First, we believe that each child is a creation of God, possessing a unique combination of gifts and talents. Second, we hold that early childhood education should nurture the development of the whole child œ socially, emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually œ in a manner consistent with the student‘s individual development. |
| A positive preschool experience in which a child develops a love for learning is our third foundation. The fourth holds that preschool should be fun, yet build the necessary skills required to successfully meet the challenges of elementary school. |
| Administrators, faculty, teacher aides and parents join together to make these four concepts a reality as students explore God‘s world, and learn God‘s word while developing their skills in reading, writing, mathematics, art, drama and music. To support our learning goals, the school has created a first-class playground that allows for supervised play in a safe, controlled environment. This gives children opportunities to explore and imagine in a supportive and understanding atmosphere. |
| Whether in the colorful classrooms, the specially designed playground, or on a field trip, students are encouraged by sensitive faculty to try, practice, build their skills, broaden their understanding and excel in every way possible. The preschool staff uses the curriculum to bring forth and enhance the gifts and talents of each child. Children learn best when instruction is developmentally appropriate and designed to meet their cognitive level. Our Preschool consists of a Toddlers class, Pre-Kindergarten 3, Pre-Kindergarten 4 and Kindergarten classes. |
| Toddlers (18 months – 3 years old) |
What we aim for within the toddler environment is a happy child; if they enjoy coming to school we feel that we have achieved
that goal. However we do follow a curriculum based on math, language, science and social studies.
For example toddler students learn to:
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| Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 (3 years—4 years old) |
Pre-Kindergarten is where children joyfully begin their active search for the tools and skills they will use for the rest of their
lives. Teachers nurture and guide each child’s emerging capabilities by creating a supportive and fun-filled classroom learning
environment. Creative play and “learning by doing” helps each child develop intellectually, socially, emotionally, and ethically.
The curriculum for both of these classes is developmentally appropriate for the age and ability of each child. The program encompasses
language concepts, vocabulary, fine and gross motor skills, perception and self-help skills. The children can enjoy
the concepts they learn during Bible time, Math or improve socialization as they develop skills to prepare them for Kindergarten.
For example Pre-Kindergarteners learn to:
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| Kindergarten |
The Kindergarten curriculum is more intense than preschool. At this exciting stage children are more aware and ready to use
their skills. In Kindergarten, the children begin reading and comprehending more complex math concepts. Adding activity to
learning is a key to exercising their curiosity. Through hands-on science experiments they explore God’s world around them.
Field trips enhance many of the topics discussed in the classroom. Kindergarten encourages children to explore their emerging
interests and skills; to appreciate literature, refine oral expression, build problem-solving skills, understand abstract concepts,
and learn to cooperate. Children become active seekers of knowledge as well as independent and creative thinkers. Classrooms
are filled with materials for learning - from math manipulatives to dramatic play areas to science centers and cozy, bookfilled
reading spaces. Teachers allow each child to explore at his or her own pace, providing subtle guidance in a warm and
fun-filled environment.
For example Kindergarteners learn to:
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