Year to Grow Program

​A program designed to help children who are not quite ready for kindergarten, but are more advanced than typical 4-year-olds. The program seems focused on fostering growth in multiple areas: academic, social, emotional, and physical development—by offering a more structured, enriched experience. The focus is on supporting children as they grow in readiness for kindergarten, providing an additional year of learning and development.

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Morning Schedule

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Arrival & Morning Work:​  Children arrive and begin morning activities such as practicing letters, numbers, and phonics. ​  This may include short worksheets, letter tracing, or number recognition activities

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Circle Time 

 

Morning Prayer:  A short, structured prayer or mindfulness moment to start the day 

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Flag & Pledge:​  A routine that may include the Pledge of Allegiance or a greeting song.

 

Weather & Calendar:  A daily check-in where the children can discuss the day's weather, review the date

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Learning Centers (Active Learning Blocks): ​ 

 

Letters & Phonics: ​ Small group work or independent tasks that focus on letter recognition, sounds, and early reading skills.  

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Numbers & Math:​  Hands-on math games, counting activities, number recognition, or early addition/subtraction games.  

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Small Group Instruction:​  Guided small-group activities focused on literacy, math, or social-emotional skills.  

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Arts & Crafts: ​ Creativity-based activities that help develop fine motor skills and introduce themes, shapes, or colors.  

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Recess:​  Outdoor playtime to allow children to get some physical activity and socialize with their peers.  

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Midday Schedule

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Snack Time: A brief snack time where children can refuel, often with time for a bit of socialization.

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Learning Centers: ​Language Arts Reading:  Read-aloud sessions, early books, or simple phonics games. 

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Math: More engaging, hands-on math activities like counting objects, sorting shapes, or basic puzzles

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Lunch:  Children have a lunch break, giving them an opportunity to rest and refuel.

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Afternoon Schedule​

 

Structured, educational games that reinforce skills in literacy, math, or social development.  

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Daily Review & Reflection:  A time to reflect on the day's activities, review what was learned, and reinforce key concepts.  

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Prayer & Dismissal:​   A final group prayer or mindfulness activity before dismissal.   Children then get ready to go home for the day.  ​

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Special:  (Enrichment Activities)

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Music:  Basic music concepts, singing, rhythm, or exploring instruments.  

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Spanish:  Simple language learning with fun activities like songs, games, or vocabulary.

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Library:  Storytime or independent reading.  Choosing a book to take home for the week 

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Stretch & Grow (Physical Activity):  A time for children to engage in physical movement, strengthening gross motor skills and developing coordination.

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Key Goals of the Year to Grow Program:

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Academic Skills: Focus on language development, early reading, math, and kindergarten-prep skills.

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Independence & Confidence:  Encouraging children to follow routines, make choices, and gain confidence in a structured environment.

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This structure ensures that children have a balanced and enriching day that prepares them for kindergarten and allows them to grow in an environment that meets their developmental needs.

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​Rosaria Iacovelli

Teacher

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Anna Marzano

Teacher Aide