Focuses on the more social and emotional components of play.  We encourage the children to explore their interests and tap into their creativity, engage in cooperative play, and utilize their imagination. These activities build confidence, creativity, and a love for school while kids learn in an age-appropriate way. Different stations are set up around the classroom, such as a reading corner, a dramatic play area, and a puzzle table. Teachers facilitate learning while children play and explore. For example, if children start exploring the sand table, the teacher may take that opportunity to talk about pouring and measuring. CHALK considers these “teachable moments” critical to incorporating education into a child’s everyday situations making connections easier.

Happens during the more structured aspects of our day, which include Circle Time as well as Centers.  Circle time is when we discuss the calendar, weather, letter/blend/digraph for the week as well as introduce the topic of the week.  Centers include the implementation of theme-based lesson plans.  They include an art, literacy, and math or science activity each day. These activities work to achieve the curricular goals that we have set for each age group. With a structured approach to learning, academic schools promote formal reading and math readiness skills. The idea is that preschoolers benefit by preparing for kindergarten and beyond at an early age. Similar to what children can expect in kindergarten, there is a daily schedule of planned activities, making the school day consistent and predictable.