Social Studies in preschool and kindergarten is centered around the study of one’s self, the family and the world around us. This is accomplished through thematic units which incorporate art, music, drama and field trips to provide meaningful and fun experiences. Topics may include the body, community helpers, the first Thanksgiving, holidays around the world, health and safety, Louisiana and the continents. In addition, preschool children participate in Southfield School’s Civilization Fair with the study of Ancient Africa (PS-3), Native Americans (PS-4) and Ancient China (K-5). Students also have fun with the daily calendar and holidays that occur throughout the year.

Children participate in many activities throughout the year that enhance their Social Studies skills. During the Civilization Fair, children learn many things about Africa. Through learning centers in each classroom the children explore its location, its people and culture and its many habitats. Children study community helpers in order to better understand how people in a community work together to help each other. Children learn about holidays and the different ways that people celebrate them. Children also attend Flag Ceremony every month to develop a sense of the Southfield community.

Activities may include the study of one’s self and family, preparing and acting out the First Thanksgiving feast, turning the dramatic play center into an office, or constructing a Pueblo village. In this way students learn by manipulating and observing actual ancient dwellings.

Preschool Readiness classes also learn about their world through daily calendar activities, classroom helpers and weekly cooking lessons pertaining to the unit of study. They participate in holiday fun i.e. President’s Day, Mardi Gras and Valentine’s Day.

Kindergarten children participate in a variety of activities that introduce them to new cultures and how their traditions differ from their own. Activities include Thanksgiving feasts, performing a Chinese dragon dance, field trips, and the study of continents. They also form community bonds through interacting with their fourth grade buddies.