Early Childhood

Growing Gracefully

Play is one of the major ways in which young children learn about the world around them. Through play, children learn about language, develop intellectual concepts, build social relationships and understanding, and strengthen physical skills.

Our Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten programs nurture growth in all areas of human development: cognitive, physical, social and emotional, linguistic, and spiritual. We respect our students’ patterns of development, recognizing the uniqueness of each young person while creating a supportive and caring peer group and school setting that allows them to flourish both emotionally and intellectually.

Our Philosophy

In Early Childhood at St. Matthew’s Parish School, we see every child as unique and deserving of an environment where they can learn, grow and flourish at their own pace. We believe in a balanced approach where academics and play exist simultaneously. Our children are exposed to foundational skills in literacy, number sense, scientific principles, and social sciences.

Curriculum

Our Early Childhood program is committed to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where children can reach their full potential. Our Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten curriculum is customized to meet each child’s individual needs socially, emotionally, physically and cognitively, and spiritually. Our Early Childhood developmental philosophy is rooted in the following principles:

1. Child-Centered Learning

We prioritize the individual needs, interests, and abilities of each child. Our curriculum is designed to foster curiosity, exploration, and creativity, allowing children to actively engage with their environment and develop a love for learning.

2. Play-Based Approach

We recognize the importance of play in a child’s development. Play is not just a means of entertainment, but a crucial vehicle for learning. Through play, children develop social skills, problem-solving abilities, and emotional intelligence.

3. Hands-On Experiences

We provide hands-on experiences that allow children to interact with materials, manipulate objects, and engage in sensory exploration. These experiences promote cognitive development, fine and gross motor skills, and language acquisition.

4. Social and Emotional Development

We prioritize the social and emotional well-being of our students. Through positive interactions with peers and teachers, children learn important skills such as empathy, cooperation, and self-regulation. We create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and valued.

5. Whole Group and Individualized Instruction

We recognize that every child learns differently. Our teachers are trained to differentiate instruction and provide support tailored to each child’s unique learning style and developmental stage. We celebrate diversity and promote inclusion in our classrooms.

6. Parent Partnership

We believe that parents are an integral part of a child’s educational journey. We maintain open communication with families and  provide updates on their child’s progress through conferences. We value parents as partners in their child’s education.

7. Lifelong Learning

We instill a love for learning that extends beyond the preschool years. Our goal is to nurture curious, independent learners, who are equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed in school and beyond.

Little Falcons is a 5-day per week program for children who are two (2) years old by August 1 of the year they wish to begin the program. Little Falcons provides a safe and positive transition from a parent-toddler program to the greater independence of preschool. In addition to the 3-hour morning program, an extended afternoon experience is available, filled with enriching programming such as Spanish, Music, Yoga and Mindfulness, Art and Cooking.