Kindergarten Curriculum
Early Math
The University of Chicago Everyday Math program provides an exciting, hands-on approach that encourages children to think through mathematical experiences and develop deep, meaningful concepts in numeration, operations, patterns and functions, geometry, measurement, money, clocks, data collection, and analysis. The Southfield Math Specialist visits classrooms weekly to provide engaging and challenging math activities for students.
Early Literacy
The “Superkids” program by the Rowland Reading Foundation is a highly motivating program that provides a comprehensive and fluid curriculum in language and literacy, while emphasizing skills in listening, speaking, writing, and reading. Children are engaged with delightful characters, captivating songs, and enriching activities while developing phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Children participate in hands-on, thematically-based activities to develop their understanding of the written and spoken language. Kindergarten students visit the library weekly for story-time with our Library Director.
Science
The science curriculum evolves from the premise that young children develop conceptual understandings of things they experience. The science program encourages children to experiment, predict, organize data, classify data, sequence, describe, make conclusions, and solve problems. Teachers facilitate this process as it relates to themes of study such as plant life, animal life, natural habitats, astronomy, space, and magnetism. Children also visit the STEAM science lab monthly for a hands-on lesson with our Science Specialist.
Social Studies
Kindergarten students participate in a variety of activities which incorporate music, art, drama, and cooking to introduce them to new cultures and how other traditions differ from their own. Activities include a family Thanksgiving Feast, study of Ancient China, field trips, and the study of continents. They enjoy buddy relationships with fourth-grade students and participate in school-wide Flag Ceremonies and the Southfield Civilization Fair. They develop and apply skills in independent learning, creativity, critical thinking, inquiry, and writing.
Music
Our Kindergarten musical experience includes singing, movement, playing instruments, dancing, early music reading skills, listening skills, and music appreciation. Students receive instruction three days a week from a certified music teacher who addresses national music learning standards in creative ways. They participate in holiday programs, Civilization Fair, and the Kindergarten play which develops acceptance and self-confidence in their abilities to perform and enjoy music in their lives. The children also study a “classical composer of the month” with the Southfield Orchestra Director.
Technology
Technology is applied to learning in the classroom setting through the student use of science equipment (magnifying glasses, magnets, balances, etc.) and multimedia equipment (CD players, iPads, etc.). Children also visit the Lower School computer lab 1-2 times each week to utilize software and support curriculum instruction in language, literacy, math, science, and social studies. Kindergarten classrooms are also equipped with projectors and interactive whiteboards to enrich classroom lessons. Teachers are purposeful with technology experiences and encourage children to enjoy these opportunities with friends so that they build both cognitive and social skills.
Art
Kindergarten students receive instruction from an art teacher once a week. The goal is to immerse the child in the world of art through hands-on activities, the study of masterworks and contemporary works, and utilization of a variety of artistic media. Children develop enthusiasm for art and enhanced motor skills. Classroom teachers also offer many varied art experiences which support curriculum themes.
Physical Education
Southfield Kindergarten students develop motor ability and cooperation skills during daily recess times with teachers. Twice weekly they participate in a comprehensive PE program taught by certified physical education specialists. Children develop strength, flexibility, and endurance while engaging in group and individual learning.
Drama
Kindergarten students use classroom centers and daily experiences to explore dramatic roles in play and learn cooperation skills. They also perform a play each year which integrates thematic classroom study with art and music.