Our Preschool 4-year-old program is designed to help children become more independent while developing their academic concepts and problem-solving skills. By the end of the year, we have the following objectives for our 4-year-olds:

Language Arts (Reading and Writing):
– Beginning to write recognizable letters, especially the letters in their name
– Recognizing more letters and sounds
– Engaging in pretend writing and scribble writing with some letters
– Writing their name on their art and writing table
– Reading by pictures in books and starting to understand that pictures and symbols represent real objects
– Recalling their address and phone number

Math:
– Recognizing number patterns such as red, blue, red, blue, etc.
– Counting up to 20 using various methods like calendars, counting objects in the room, and counting games
– Understanding simple addition and subtraction through real-life scenarios
– Grouping objects based on two characteristics: color and shape
– Grasping number and space concepts, such as more, less, bigger, in, under, and behind

Social:
– Developing friendships and engaging in longer-lasting play with others
– Learning sharing and turn-taking skills
– Generating solutions to conflicts and learning problem-solving skills

Emotional:
– Developing empathy and confidence in expressing their needs and feelings

Spirituality:
– Developing an initial concept of God as the Creator
– Expressing thankfulness in prayer
– Beginning to ask questions about God and applying Bible stories/concepts to their life
– Expanding their world to include others beyond their close contacts

Physical:
– Sitting for 10-15 minutes while actively engaged
– Improving accuracy with scissors and writing utensils
– Demonstrating skills like pumping a swing, dressing independently, tying shoes, cutting on a line, and drawing a body

In our preschool setting, we use various teaching methods to support reading, writing, and math development:

Language Arts (Reading and Writing):
– Reading to children and ensuring books are always available
– Labeling objects in the classroom with words
– Using names on cubbies and encouraging children to find their names or write their names for self-check-in
– Using visual aids like name collars and picture-based job assignments
– Encouraging children to dictate stories related to their drawings, connecting verbal words to written words and pictures
– Introducing writing materials and centers with tape, books, envelopes, scissors, and stamps
– Relating letters to actual objects using letter boxes
– Writing letters as a group and engaging in letter-related songs, movement, and finger plays
– Exploring letter sounds and playing letter games
– Offering access to books on tape for auditory learning

Math:

– Encouraging counting through activities like calendars and counting objects in the room

– Using games for matching, sorting, pattern recognition, and number understanding

– Incorporating open-ended art activities that involve writing numbers and drawing corresponding amounts

– Introducing shapes through building blocks, classroom exposure, games, and activities

– Exploring balance through various activities and games

– Incorporating math-related songs, movement, and finger plays

At The Greek School of Plato, we are dedicated to providing a well-rounded education that nurtures the academic, social, emotional, spiritual, and physical development of our preschoolers. In addition to our Preschool 4-year-old program, we are proud to incorporate a Greek language program and a theatre/fine arts program along with the core curriculum, to further enrich the educational experience for our students.

Our Greek language program aims to introduce children to the Greek language, culture, and heritage. Through interactive activities, games, songs, and stories, we create a fun and immersive environment where children can develop their language skills. Our dedicated teachers provide instruction in Greek vocabulary, basic grammar, and conversational phrases, fostering a love for the Greek language and fostering a sense of pride in their cultural heritage.

Our theatre/fine arts program offers children the opportunity to explore their creativity and express themselves through various artistic mediums. Through drama, storytelling, role-playing, and creative arts activities, children develop their imagination, communication skills, and self-confidence. They learn to work collaboratively, develop characters, and express emotions, while also gaining an appreciation for different forms of artistic expression. Our program encourages children to explore their talents, discover their unique voices, and cultivate a lifelong love for the arts.

By incorporating these programs into our curriculum, we strive to provide a well-rounded education that not only focuses on academic development but also nurtures creativity, cultural awareness, and self-expression. Our goal is to inspire a love for learning, foster a sense of belonging, and empower our students to become well-rounded individuals.