First experiences, done well, pave the way to future happiness and success. The Early Childhood curriculum at Oak Hill Academy’s Pre-Kindergarten, located at the Pacelli Center for Early Learning, program is designed to inspire children to become enthusiastic, lifelong learners. Students are encouraged to be active and creative explorers who are not afraid to try out their own ideas and think their own thoughts. Our goal is to help children become independent, self-confident and inquisitive learners while they acquire good habits and a positive sense of themselves.
Dimensions Math
A comprehensive, activity-based program, Dimensions Math is designed to build a strong foundation in mathematics by providing exciting, fun-filled lessons and activities. The students are actively involved in the learning process, moving from the concrete use of hands-on manipulatives to the pictorial stage where pictures are used to model problems, and finally on to the abstract concepts where numbers, notation, and symbols are incorporated. In addition, the Pre-Kindergarten math program is strengthened through the supplemental use of other materials which provides additional practice in the mastery of counting, patterns, calendar, seasons, money, and collecting data.
Language Arts Literacy
Pre-Kindergarten utilizes a developmentally appropriate, research based curriculum designed to prepare four year-olds for the academic and social demands of kindergarten. It provides students with the tools needed to strengthen their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Daily experiences include a variety of enriching literacy and language activities through the Wonders Program. Lessons take place during small group activities and large group meeting circles.
Let’s Begin With the Letter People is used as a supplemental reading program to further strengthen phonemic awareness, letter identification, and sound-symbol correlation.
Music and Movement
Our program encourages student interaction and provides them with activities that support the whole Pre-Kindergarten experience. It prepares students for school through physical development, social interaction and language growth. Playing music, moving to the beat and stimulating experiences fosters learning. Early physical activity contributes to brain growth needed to reinforce habits of learning.
The Pre-Kindergarten program is open to children who are 4 years old or approaching 4 developmentally by the start of the year. Readiness is assessed through the admission process. This range in age will allow for developmental grouping of students and the option of customizing the program to accommodate those children who may require another year of readiness.
