Our preschool is housed in a one-story building separate from the upper grades of Balboa Academy. We have lots of classroom space and light, interesting materials, and an enormous playground. Children enjoy our setting, where they can be active and engaged in learning. The preschool schedule is Mondays – Fridays, 8:00 – 12:30.

Each of our teachers has a small group of three and four-year-olds. We find that mixed-age grouping helps students learn how to lead and to follow, how to communicate, and how to get along in a group. Mixed-age grouping also has the advantage of providing us with a group of returning students to begin each year. It helps greatly to have children who know our school, our teachers, and our ways. New students have “student guides” and teachers have helpers.

The Preschool Environment

We believe our preschool environment is a key part of our curriculum. Children at this age need to move about, choosing and using materials independently, interacting with other children and adults, and learning through their senses.

Each classroom is set up with learning centers, such as blocks, dramatic play, toys and games, art, sand and water. Materials are organized and available, so children can make decisions about where to be, who to play with, and what to work on. We also teach our students to pick up after play, which teaches them responsibility for their school.

Students learn to work within the daily routine established in each classroom. Each day includes: large group, small group, teacher-directed, child choice, snack and outdoor play. A flexible routine is comforting for all of us, and children quickly learn what to expect of their school day.