Simi Covenant Preschool provides a developmentally appropriate environment and curriculum for children. Children are generally placed in classes according to age. Consideration of individual needs is given. Children are encouraged to explore and discover, to create and imagine. Classroom setups include such things as dramatic play, block play, manipulative and cognitive toys and puzzles, art activities, books, science activities (such as sand, water, clay, etc.). Children are encouraged to make choices about the activities they want to be involved in, with the teachers acting as facilitators and redirectors. The program also includes a group circle time, during which children can learn to be part of a group activity. Circle time may include stories (book and/or flannelgraph), singing, fingerplays, rhythms, body movement, sharing, games, etc. A healthy snack is provided daily, and children are often involved in food preparation. An outside playtime is also offered daily in our large, shady yard. Here children can develop large and small motor skills, as well as social and cooperative skills.

 

Reading and math readiness are encompassed in the program. Many so-called "play" activities, such as puzzles and art, are essential in developing visual perception and fine motor skills. Games involving visual and auditory skills of perception, memory, and matching, also develop pre-academic skills. Baking involves science and math concepts as well as social skills. In this way many areas of our curriculum help to prepare children for future academic programs.

 

Chapel for the entire school is held on special occasions. Parents are welcome to join this. In addition, Bible stories and Christian music are used in the classrooms on a daily basis. No specific church doctrine is taught; rather, simple Bible truths are expressed.