academics

Lamb of God uses the Preschool Core Knowledge Sequence as the curriculum guide for our classes. The skills of the Preschool Sequence are based on research and best practices in early childhood education. The sequence embraces a broad course of learning. Children learn through a process of building schemas and connections based upon prior knowledge. They can only build these through connecting their current experiences with previous ones. In other words, prior knowledge is the base or foundation on which new knowledge is constructed. Each day, the children tackle a rich and rigorous sequence of lessons in bible, mathematics, language arts, science, and the arts.

Lamb of God is committed to the idea that academic excellence demands a solid, specific core curriculum. We believe that the key to continued learning and improved literacy is a core of knowledge. Our curriculum provides that core of knowledge at an age appropriate level.

Our Academic Programs

Pre-K

Pre-K teachers have the dual job of continuing to stimulate social growth (and let kids be kids), while also preparing them academically for the rigors of kindergarten.

In our pre-K class you will find:

READING Don't panic; your child is not expected to graduate from preschool knowing how to read. But he should show that he's ready to make a start by identifying the starting sounds of words and being able to rhyme easily. Just by listening and watching the teacher read, your child is becoming familiar with basic literacy concepts, like reading left to right, and what words and letters are. Sometimes, if you walk by the library center, you'll see preschoolers ‘reading’ by turning the pages and narrating what they see - a great precursor to real reading.

HANDWRITING This is the time to introduce him to concepts of such how letters are formed from top to bottom, and how words are written from left to right across the page.

PLAYING IT UP Kids are far more adept now at playing cooperatively, which does not mean without conflict! Still, you'll find fours planning out play before they start, creating roles and plotlines, incorporating fairness, and taking turns more easily. Children are learning to be inclusive, inviting classmates to join them. Nuances of kindness and sensitivity will serve them well come big-kid school.

PUZZLE TABLE Legos, and puzzles, and beads - oh, my! Children improve their fine motor skills, concentration, and hand-eye coordination when they play these games. Working independently also gives them practice in problem solving.

SAND/WATER TABLE The tools and toys help teach science concepts like cause and effect. Since there's no right or wrong with these materials, kids feel a sense of success when they play with them.

SCIENCE PROJECTS Science tools like scales and magnifying glasses allow kids to examine, experiment, predict, question, and problem-solve.

CIRCLE TIME Learning to sit patiently, saying good morning, and talking about the day's events are key parts
of your child's day. This preschool ‘town meeting’ gives her important practice for the skills she'll need to master for kindergarten.

ART AREA Crayons, markers, safety scissors, glue, and paintbrushes are all great tools for mastering fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. And children love to talk about their artwork - it gives them practice with language and self-expression.

BLOCK AREA What isn't your child learning? She's gaining basic math skills when she counts them, identifies their shapes, and compares their sizes. Building houses, roads, and forts helps her hone spatial skills that will be helpful for geometry and physics later on.

OUTDOOR PLAY It looks like chaos, but all that activity helps kids learn what their bodies can do. Children need to move and experiment to master balance, improve coordination, and develop their muscles. Group activities on the playground also teach kids cooperation.

3-4 Year Olds

A hallmark of the transition from 2 to 3 is the discovery of the world of friends. Three-year-olds love being with each other now, and teachers give them plenty of time for unstructured, imaginative play - which helps them develop language skills.

In our three’s class you will find:

WRITING and not just on paper! A teacher might pour sugar or sand on a cookie sheet so the children can 'write' with their fingers.

READING Books are essential to a three-year-old classroom. This is the year it really hits them that the words remain the same every time they're read. By the end of this year, many threes are able to pick out sounds at the beginning of a word and to recognize rhymes, which are critical skills for reading success.

COUNTING Most children this age can count at least to 10 if not much higher. However, they might not be able to count 10 actual objects accurately. The aim this year is to help them put numbers into everyday use, such as counting out four spoons for the four friends at their table.

INDEPENDENCE “I’ll do it myself, please.” By the end of this year, threes should be expected to take out - and put away - the items they use.

2-3 Year Olds

School at this age is less about lessons than getting experience with becoming part of a group. Children are introduced to sharing and taking turns, making friends, and developing language. However, there is plenty more these toddlers can learn. No, your child won't be reading or penning her name, but later literacy has its roots in toddler experiences and knowledge. Coloring and painting strengthen the muscles she'll later use to write. Exposure to printed material gets her ready to read.

In our two’s class you will find:

PRACTICING THE ART OF CONVERSATION What preschool experts call "cycles of conversation."

TAKING TURNS TO TALK A growing sense of respect for others - an important piece of the school-preparation puzzle.

ASKING FOR PERMISSION Learning what is appropriate at school.

INDEPENDENT SELF-CARE Pulling up pants, washing hands.

FINE MOTOR SKILLS Most twos use their whole fist to grab a crayon and move their whole arm to make marks on paper.