WHY CHOOSE OUR PRE-K OVER TK?

A quote from a Pre-K parent: "Even though our child is age-eligible for Transitional Kindergarten (TK), we chose to keep her at Tamalpais Strawberry Preschools in the Pre-K program because we wanted her to be in a learning environment that allowed for and encouraged a more age- and developmentally-appropriate education." 

·  Our teachers are experienced in the education of young children, specifically 2-5 year olds.  They are educated and trained to foster their social, emotional, and developmental skills, and they physically "get down on the same level" with each child.  All teachers belong to NAEYC (the National Association for the Education of Young Children) and receive ongoing training specific to preschool and pre-kindergarten.

·  We maintain low child to teacher ratios: typical ratios are 6:1 (6 children for every 1 teacher), with 2-3 teachers trained in Early Childhood Education in the classroom.

·  We have daily art, music and science activities as part of our routine. Every day also includes movement, literature, number recognition, pre-math, and pre-reading skills. 

·   We are play-based: our children are learning the alphabet, shapes, sizes, numbers, colors, etc. through play. Our curriculum is tailored to the interests of the children and has a child-centered approach (activities or situations that engage learners, problem-solving through language, play, and socialization, and working in small groups).  Our focus is on the “Whole Child”—we emphasize and foster the child’s overall growth, which includes social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. 

·  Our playground equipment is designed for children 5 years and younger.  Safety is a top priority and we only have age-appropriate equipment and toys available. 

·  Each child is encouraged to develop independence while still being supported on an individual basis. We have age-appropriate expectations and specialized extra support if needed to prepare for kindergarten. 

·  Classroom skills are taught including writing (“Handwriting without Tears”), letter recognition, small and large motor skills, sitting and completing individual tasks, paying attention, and participating in group activities. 

·  Local Kindergarten teachers agree that children from our Pre-K programs are ready for school. They can follow directions, take turns, and raise their hands—they can use writing utensils and scissors, along with knowing their letters, shapes, and colors, and being socially able to participate in school activities.