Pre-Kindergarten 4 (Age: 4 years by Sept. 1st )
The Pre-K4 class is available to students who have shown increased skill and social development within the Pre-K4 program.
At the NDA, your child will transition through each stage of the Early Years Program with teachers who guide him/her in all aspects of development. The Pre-K4 curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded early learning experience which prepares them for the expectations of kindergarten.
The Pre-K4 program builds a solid foundation for students in all academic areas, as well as, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
In addition to the core curriculum listed below, Pre-K4 students also have weekly classes in art, music, physical education, library, and computer. There will also be multiple opportunities throughout the school week to learn and explore in our STEAM Mini-makerspace, specifically designed to foster a love of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math in our youngest learners and develop a foundation of skills essential to 21st century learning.
Curriculum
Reading
The Pre-K4 program uses Scott Foresman’s Reading Street and Fundations Phonics Program to build a strong basis of beginning reading skills including letter recognition and sounds, rhyming, syllable counting, print awareness, comprehension skills, and a love of literature.
Math
The Pre-K4 math program focuses on counting, numeral recognition and writing numbers to 20, patterning, sorting and classifying, 2D and 3D shapes, graphing, and basic addition and subtraction in a hands-on format that allows students to construct meaning through concrete experiences.
Handwriting
The Pre-K4 uses the Zaner Bloser handwriting program which focuses on correct pencil grip and letter formation through specific language and the grouping of letters by similar strokes.
Social Studies
The Pre-K4 social studies program focuses on family, friends, school experiences and rules, community, traditions, significant people and events in history, and basic map skills. These topics are taught both as standalone lessons and weaved throughout the entire curriculum. The Let’s Find Out! weekly series by Scholastic further enhances this program.
Science
The Pre-K4 science curriculum focuses on exploring the wonders of the world through open-ended exploration and guided experimentation. Students are encouraged to ask questions, make predictions, experiment to discover, and reflect on their discoveries. Non-fiction literature selections, the Let’s Find Out! weekly series by Scholastic, and exploration in the S.T.E.A.M. Mini Maker’s Space further enhances these experiences.
Religion
The Pre-K4 program uses the faith-based Exploring God’s Gift curriculum by Sadlier publishers to introduce students to the idea of God’s presence in the world and their lives. Emphasis is placed on the belief that each individual is a gift from God to the world and kindness, compassion, and love makes the world a better place for all.