Early Childhood — Preschool through Kindergarten
“When we first started the application process for our older child, we could say that our initial interest in Oak Grove was sparked by it being founded by Krishnamurti. Even though we can say that is still our primary draw, after touring the campus and meeting faculty, our impression of the school has become more informed, and a deeper appreciation has blossomed. It is very palpable that Krishnamurti’s presence is infused throughout the school and his simple guidance is still very much alive. It’s clear that Oak Grove is successfully implementing making children feel safe, secure, and loved. It is our feeling that this is an essential component of the foundation of a rewarding education.” -Prospective parent
Discovery
The Early Childhood Programs at Oak Grove School provide young children a wide range of experiences in a very nurturing environment. Because Preschoolers and Kindergartners are emerging from the comfort and security of their homes, Oak Grove programs ease them gently and playfully into the world of peers. At Oak Grove, children come to trust their teachers who are caring, supportive, and knowledgeable about this journey.
Learning
Serious respect for the work and play of children is combined with developmentally appropriate expectations of classroom routine and social learning. Children begin to learn how to get along with others – to express themselves in words, to be aware of other people’s feelings, to share, and to solve disputes.
In Oak Grove’s diverse, thoughtful community, we strive for collaboration among teachers, parents, and children that models the values of cooperation and life-long learning. Our founder’s intent was not just the schooling of children but nourishment of the whole family.
Three facets make up the Early Childhood Programs at Oak Grove School. They include a developmental Preschool for 3- to 5-year-olds and Kindergarten for 4- to 6-year-olds, as well as a parent education and support program.
Preschool Program
In Oak Grove’s Preschool Program, an environment is created where learning takes place naturally and intellectual growth flourishes, but is never forced. Through stories, art, nature, indoor and outdoor activities and movement, children are supported as they explore their world and become more independent.
As children become more at ease with separation, they begin to form peer relationships and increasingly become part of a group. Preschool provides challenge and intellectual stimulation within a warm emotional climate. Teachers and children create experiences together that arouse curiosity, inspire discovery, and stretch muscles. Through observing children closely, teachers determine needs, temperament, and readiness for next steps.
There is a special emphasis on social-emotional development in Preschool, based on the values of community and empathy. Children are given the tools and skills needed to participate in cooperative interactions, to resolve conflicts peacefully, to stand up for themselves and others, and to be active, responsible members of a group.
At Oak Grove we are committed to fostering in children the sense of well-being and confidence that enables them to appreciate others and instills real understanding across cultures.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten at Oak Grove is a time when children and their families enter a larger, more diverse community, when children are discovering their autonomy, yet still need supportive adults to help them make sense of the world.
This is a time when the transition between play and learning is still seamless. The Kindergarten program reflects an understanding that children learn through active involvement and play and that children represent their knowledge in a variety of ways. Kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential problem-solving and communication skills that they will use throughout their schooling. Through immersion in a participatory, collaborative, and inquiry-based curriculum, students develop a sense of independence and empathy and internalize a feeling of safety.
Parent Support
Our intention is to nurture an affectionate partnership between teachers and parents. To encourage open communication between home and school, parent education and discussion time in parent meetings are offered twice a month.
Come discover and learn with us!
Oak Grove’s Early Childhood Programs emphasize the emotional and academic benefits that can take place when parents and children learn together.
