Frequently Asked Questions
What curriculum will the preschool follow?
Khalsa Gurmat School (KGS) Preschool offers a bilingual (English and Punjabi/Gurmukhi) learning environment where children explore the world through the combined lenses of Montessori education and Gurmat values. Hands-on activities, a nurturing atmosphere, and the principles of humility, seva (selfless service), and spirituality nurture independence, a love of learning, and a strong moral foundation. The curriculum includes practical life skills, sensorial exploration, mathematics, science, geography, art, and language.
What age group is the preschool for, and how are the classes structured?
Our mixed-age classrooms (2.5-6 years) offer a unique and enriching learning environment. Older children naturally mentor younger ones, fostering leadership, empathy, and collaboration in a family-like setting. This benefits both age groups: older children reinforce their learning by teaching, developing confidence and leadership skills, while younger children accelerate their development by observing and interacting with advanced peers. This diverse environment cultivates empathy, compassion, and a strong sense of community, creating a supportive and stimulating atmosphere where children develop crucial social-emotional skills, enhance cognitive abilities, and build a solid foundation for future success.
What are the hours for students?
To meet the needs of our community, we currently offer a four-hour preschool program from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, five days a week. We are also exploring the addition of a second session from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm, also five days a week.
How do you ensure a safe and nurturing environment for the children?
How do you support social, emotional, and cognitive development?
What is the daily schedule for students?
- Arrival and Free Play (30 minutes): Children arrive, greet their teachers and friends, and engage in free play activities. This allows for a smooth transition and encourages social interaction.
- Circle Time (30 minutes): A group activity where children gather for songs, stories, discussions, and learning about the day's theme or topic. This develops language skills, listening skills, and a sense of community.
- Learning Centers/Work Time (1.5 hours): Children explore various learning centers or engage in individual or small group work.
- Outdoor Play (1 hour): Children enjoy active play
- Snack Time (30 minutes): A break for a healthy snack, often with a focus on social skills and proper table manners.
What subjects are taught?
- Language and literacy (reading, writing, storytelling)
- Math concepts (counting, shapes, patterns)
- Science exploration (experiments, nature studies)
- Arts and crafts (painting, drawing, music)
- Practical life skills (dressing, food preparation)