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Pre-K Curriculum » Pre-K Curriculum

Pre-K Curriculum

Where Learning Begins Through Play
We believe every child is curious, capable, and ready to learn. At Elm Hill School in Springfield, Vermont, our play-based Pre-K program gives young children a safe, welcoming place to explore, ask questions, build friendships, and discover new things every day. Through play and hands-on experiences, children develop the skills they need for school and life. They learn to communicate, solve problems, work with others, express their ideas, and become more independent. Every activity is an opportunity to learn, grow, and build confidence.


Learning Through Play
Play is at the heart of early learning. Whether children are building with blocks, creating art, exploring outdoors, listening to stories, or using their imaginations, they are developing important skills.

Our teachers create meaningful learning experiences that support each child's growth and development, including:

  • Social and emotional skills: Building friendships, sharing, taking turns, and learning to understand and express feelings.

  • Language and literacy: Listening, speaking, telling stories, recognizing letters, and building a love of books.

  • Early math and problem-solving: Exploring numbers, patterns, shapes, measurement, and cause and effect.

  • Physical development: Strengthening coordination and motor skills through movement, outdoor play, and hands-on activities.

  • Creativity and curiosity: Asking questions, trying new things, imagining possibilities, and learning through discovery.

 

Supporting the Whole Child
Every child develops at their own pace. Our Pre-K program uses the Vermont Early Learning Standards (VELS) to guide teaching and support children's growth from birth through grade three. These standards help families and educators understand what children are learning and how to support their next steps. They also provide a shared framework for planning meaningful experiences that build on each child's strengths, interests, and developmental needs. We work in partnership with families to support each child's learning and development. By sharing observations, celebrating progress, and identifying areas where a child may need additional support, we help every learner build a strong foundation for the years ahead.

A Strong Start for School and Life
Pre-K is about more than getting ready for kindergarten. It is a time for children to discover what they can do, learn how to be part of a community, and develop a lasting excitement for learning.

At Elm Hill School, we want every child to feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged to explore what is possible.

Ready to learn more about Pre-K in Springfield, Vermont? Explore our enrollment information or contact Elm Hill School with questions about our program.