The beginning of an educational journey... the first day of PreK

For the PreK children at Graceville School, August 17, 2023 is not just their first day of school, for some it is their first day away from all familiar faces. It is the beginning of their school journey. It begins with hugs, kisses and “see you this afternoon” or “have a good day” from loved ones who walked them to class.

Then the day begins on this wonderful journey. Mrs. Jeannie Barefield and Mrs. Talita Olds try to assemble them into a makeshift line to go to breakfast. This is like many have said through the years, herding cats. With 20 children varying from the age of three to soon turning five in September, these children are full of energy, giggles, and some with tears. However, a few “missing Mama hugs” and some reassurance and the teachers have them all smiles again.

PreK is what some consider Kindergarten was many years ago. Learning through play, following a schedule, outside and inside play, and teaching from the Frogstreet Curriculum.

Many may not realize that even PreK has a curriculum that focuses on Language, literacy, math, science, social studies, conscious discipline and social emotional skills. There are even State assessments administered and scored 3 times a year, in class assessments, and parent communication calendars.

The theme and greeting are taught to the whole group and then the children separate into small groups for the lessons and skill introductions. These skills will be integrated into each learning center during the day, inside and outside. Every child can learn but just in different ways. Various techniques are taught to ensure each child understands and retains the skill being taught. The children will play during these times, however, there will be materials and activities pertaining to the lessons and skills being taught as well.

Music and movement are a big part of PreK and development. When children cross the midline, crossing left to right to touch their toes or left and right swinging their arms this helps with brain and cognitive development. Repeating a rhythm pattern is good for auditory development.

Everything done in the PreK classroom is done with research based early childhood techniques to enhance the development of the child. Emotional and social skills are a key to independence. Children are taught to put their backpacks in their cubby, daily folder in the basket and to clean up after themselves. The Emotional part of the day is done to teach children be kind, treat others with respect, and they are responsible for what they say and do. Mrs. Barefield and Mrs. Olds emphasize that PreK is about teaching empathy and how to apologize, table manners, speaking in a complete sentence, bus and playground safety and lots of praise for building confidence for a successful beginning to their first year of school.

While there are many tasks to be done, smiles to create, and tears to wipe away, both teachers are enthusiastic about their jobs because they comment the growth of the PreK child emotionally, physically, mentally and educationally is a joy to see.

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