Early childhood is a critical period for literacy development, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and development. Nurturing relationships between teachers and students is at the foundation of all curricula at CPA Preschool, and literacy is no exception. Teachers create a holistic approach to reading that engages a student’s heart and mind. Reading is a gateway to imagination, curiosity, wonder, and ultimately a delight in learning. Understanding that God has made each child uniquely, a classroom atmosphere of belonging sets the stage for each child to explore the world through a love of reading. 

In the essence of Frederick Douglass’s inspiring words- “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free”, preschool teachers find joy in helping students discover more about what makes their eyes light up or their hearts beat a little faster! 

The Heart: Emotional and Social Literacy
Emotional and social literacy are pivotal in early childhood development. Our preschool program places a strong emphasis on nurturing the heart through:

• Storytelling and Role-Playing: Through engaging stories and role-playing activities, children learn to identify and express their emotions, understand empathy, and build healthy relationships with peers.
• Circle Time Discussions: Daily circle time encourages children to share their thoughts and feelings, fostering a sense of community and enhancing their verbal communication skills.
• Social Skills Development: Activities designed to teach sharing, cooperation, and conflict resolution help children develop the social skills necessary for successful interactions.

The Mind: Cognitive and Language Literacy
The cognitive and language development of children is at the core of our curriculum. We aim to stimulate the mind through:

• Phonemic Awareness and Alphabet Knowledge: Interactive games, songs, and activities that focus on letter recognition and phonemic awareness lay the groundwork for reading and writing.
• Read-Aloud Sessions: Teachers read a variety of books aloud to children, exposing them to rich vocabulary, different genres, and diverse cultures, enhancing their listening and comprehension skills.
• Language-Rich Environment: Classrooms are adorned with labels, word walls, and literacy centers that encourage children to explore and engage with written language in meaningful ways. Spero Hall is also now outfitted with a Preschool Library! A new curated space on the playground for students to explore books in their own library setting, designed for little hands and eyes, and oh so cozy! 

The Body: Physical Literacy and Well-Being
Physical activity is crucial for overall development and learning readiness. Our program supports the body through:

• Gross Motor Activities: Outdoor play, dance, and movement games help children develop their gross motor skills, which are essential for physical health and brain development.
• Fine Motor Skills: Activities like drawing, cutting, and manipulating small objects strengthen fine motor skills, crucial for writing and other precision tasks.
• Healthy Habits Education: Lessons on nutrition, hygiene, and self-care teach children the importance of maintaining a healthy body, which supports their ability to learn effectively.
• Creativity and Excitement: Curating environments that celebrate the imaginative power of reading for the whole community enrich a child’s connection to books. This year’s first-ever Preschool Book Bash engaged the colors, characters, and fantastical worlds of writers like Eric Carle, Laura Numeroff, Mo Willems, James Dean, and Dr. Seuss. Students played with interactive, themed stations bringing their favorite stories to life! 

The preschool program is designed to integrate these components, ensuring that each child receives a well-rounded foundation for reading proficiency. Teachers are trained to observe,  intentionally respond, support, and celebrate the learning process. By creating an environment that values emotional, cognitive, and physical development equally, we prepare children not just for school, but for a lifetime of learning and well-being.