CURRICULUM
Wee Wisdom believes in an integrated approach to curriculum, recognizing that different content area instructions are inherently connected. Written by Mrs. Heidi Polcha-Geniviva, who brings over 30 of experience in early childhood education, our curriculum is thoughtfully designed for young minds. We offer specialized programs for Mini-Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten, and Tweeners, each aligned with Pennsylvania learning standards to ensure a quality educational foundation for your child. We strive to create an educational environment where every child can thrive and develop a love for learning. All of our programs include the following:
Gross Motor Skill Development
Gross motor skill development is important for preschoolers as it lays foundation for their physical health and overall growth. Engaging in activities like running, jumping, and climbing helps children build strength, coordination, and balance. These skills not only enhance their physical abilities but also boost their confidence social interactions. Encouraging active play is essential for fostering these skills in young children.
Mathematics
During our academic time we are dedicated to helping children master essential mathematical skills! We provide a wide range of engaging and interactive activities that focus on key concepts such as counting, number recognition, and numerical order. In addition, our curriculum introduces young learners to colors, shapes, and the foundational elements of addition and subtraction. We strive to make the journey of math an enjoyable and rewarding adventure for every child.
Social Studies
In our social studies class, we learn about families, our community, transportation, street signs, social interactions, occupations, foods around the world, people around the world, and homes around the world . By utilizing Scholastic Readers, we dive into new topics that expand our understanding and appreciation of the world around us.
Arts and Crafts
In our art classes we explore a wide variety of mediums, including painting, cutting, modeling, and stencils. Our lessons are grounded in the seven essential art elements: line, shape, color value, texture, form, and space. In our Pre-Kindergarten, we also study renowned artists and have fun replicating their masterpieces!
Language Arts
At our school, we prioritize a robust academic foundation in Language Arts. Our students engage in activities that help them master recognization of both upper and lower case letters, letter writing, and phonemic sound awareness. This essential skill set lays the groundwork for reading readiness, ensuring that children are well-prepared for their literacy journey. We utilize Heggerty Phonemic Awareness curriculum in all of our Pre-K classes. We are dedicated to fostering a love for reading and writing from an early age.
Science
Our students discover the fascinating world of science as we delve into nine monthly units geared towards early learners. Children learn to create hypotheses, explore vertebrate and invertebrate animals, weights and measurements, play with magnets and magnification, excavate dinosaur bones, erupt volcanoes, plant seeds, dive into the ocean, and understand our five senses. We raise monarch butterflies in the fall, frogs in the winter, and ladybugs in the spring. We explore the Pablo Python animal unit to learn about animal growth, babies, camouflage, and classification. Each unit is designed to ignite curiosity and enhance understanding of the natural world.
Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor skill activities such as paper cutting, peg boards, stringing, and sewing boards play a crucial role in children's development. Engaging in these hands-on tasks helps strengthen their hand-eye coordination and dexterity. By honing these skills at an early age, children become better prepared for writing and other tasks that require precision. Encouraging these activities can lead to greater confidence and capability in their future learning experiences.
Religion
In our daily Bible story time, we explore the lives of different people in the Bible to discover how much God loves each one of us. Our goal is to teach the kids that they are uniquely made by God and He has a beautiful plan for their lives. Our Lord Jesus Christ is at the center of all we do.
Technology
Technology plays a vital role in our learning environment! Our students engage with educational games on iPads and utilize the SMART Board, they are well-prepared for their future in kindergarten and beyond. By integrating these tools, we empower children to harness technology effectively and creatively.
Physical Education
Children enjoy a wide range of games every day in our gym! We use the SPARK Physical Education Curriculum and include fun activities like parachute, obstacle course, and ball skills. These games not only help children develop their motor skills, but also provides the perfect outlet for their energy. Our students have an active and engaging experience that supports their growth and development!
Spanish and Sign Language
In our Spanish and Sign Language units, children explore new words and signs each month. Through engaging activities, they learn essential vocabulary in Spanish, including counting, colors, family names, household items, and body parts. In sign language, they pick up fundamental signs like yes, no, bathroom please, thank you, eat, drink, and much more. This enriching experience fosters communication skills and cultural awareness in a fun and interactive way.
STEAM
We have dedicated STEM days, where we immerse ourselves in the fascinating worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Each activity is designed to inspire creativity and innovation, encouraging hands-on learning and exploration. We introduce the basics of coding small robots and do many experiments. Children experience engaging activities and projects that spark curiosity and foster a love for STEAM.
Music
Our students enjoy singing along every day to different seasonal songs. We also incorporate musical instruments into our lessons, allowing them to explore rhythm, various tones, and percussion. Through these activities, they learn to express themselves and move their bodies to the beat, fostering a love for music and creativity.
Free Play
We believe in the importance of free play time for our students. This dedicated time allows them to engage with their peers, fostering social cooperative skills in a fun and relaxed environment. By encouraging play, we help our students build essential relationships and learn valuable teamwork skills that will benefit them both in and out of the classroom.
