FiVE Year Olds

The 5s program serves as a transitional year between the 4s and kindergarten with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, curiosity and problem solving as children continue to develop a sense of growing independence as well as a sense of community and friendship building where respect, kindness and sharing are valued.

Children will spend time individually or as members of a group creating art; investigating a science project that prompts them to predict, observe and draw conclusions; acting as classroom helpers; or spending time outside using their imaginations on our ocean-themed playscape.

The 5s program fosters independence in many ways; including encouraging children to handle their own dressing needs, caring for their possessions and materials, negotiating social interaction and developing constructive ways to regulate and express their emotions.

A typical day in the 5s class includes morning meeting, centers that promote creativity and exploration, time on the playground, music and art, snack and lunch, and creative movement. Literacy is integrated throughout the day in numerous ways including storytelling, show and tell, book making and dramatic play (where children may create their own post office, restaurant, garden center, zoo and more) allowing both pre-writing and pre-reading as well as math skills to organically become a part of the experience.

The 5s additionally have numerous in, and out of, school field trip experiences which may include a gardening lesson, a visit to the library, pizza parlor or harbor.