Developmental Kindergarten at SIJCC ECE

In response to the challenging experiences some children and families have encountered in other TK programs, we chose to expand our Developmental Kindergarten offering for 4-year-olds. By maintaining our developmental approach while introducing carefully scaffolded skill-building, we aim to provide a supportive environment where young learners can flourish both socially and academically.

Our students are ready for Kindergarten once they complete this experience with us. 

Our Developmental Kindergarten program (our “TK” alternative) offers a unique bridge between preschool and elementary school, designed for children who are ready for new challenges but still benefit from a deeply developmental approach. Grounded in a constructivist pedagogy, the program honors children’s natural curiosity and builds on their existing strengths, helping them move toward the academic and social skills necessary for kindergarten entry.

Playful Transitions

At the start of the year, the classroom feels much like preschool: rich with opportunities for play, free expression, and open-ended exploration. As the year goes on, teachers introduce a new skill focus each month, creating a gentle and structured progression that supports children’s growth in literacy, numeracy, social-emotional learning, and problem-solving. These skills are always embedded in meaningful, hands-on experiences that invite children to construct knowledge actively rather than passively.

Colorful, painted paper gift bags hanging on a shelf in a classroom, with a background of painted house art on the wall and other art supplies and backpacks visible.

Collaboration

Collaboration is at the heart of the program. Children are encouraged to explore their interests in pairs and small groups, learning not only to tolerate but also to value and encourage the perspectives of their peers. Through these experiences, they develop the confidence to express their own ideas and the resilience to work through challenges together.

Two young children in a classroom are examining trays with small items, possibly grapes or berries, covered with plastic and taped with orange tape. Other children are working at a different table in the background, and the classroom walls are decorated with various artworks and educational posters.

Independence & Responsibility

Equally important is our emphasis on independence and responsibility. Children are supported in taking ownership of their learning, materials, and relationships. This sense of responsibility grows naturally out of daily routines, classroom projects, and guided provocations from teachers.

Colorfully drawn passports with the words 'My Passport' on the cover, placed on a table with brown package boxes underneath, and chairs in the background.

While targeted skill-building is an integral part of the program, we remain committed to a developmental approach. Ample time is preserved for free expression, play, and creative exploration alongside intentional projects and teacher-guided learning opportunities. This balance ensures that children are not only prepared for kindergarten academically, but also nurtured socially, emotionally, and creatively. As they exit our program, they are ready to thrive as independent learners and collaborative community members.