Introduction to School & Preschool
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A mix of guided activities and plenty of free discovery gently introduces the concept of group structure. Children practice sitting together at circle time, communicating their needs, making friends, and exploring different loose parts opportunities, imaginative play, building, sharing books, art of all varieties, and Montessori practical life works. Verbal and social skills are developed through play, song, and exploration. Most importantly, we provide a loving, slow-paced, and nurturing experience for this young blossoming group!
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Introduction to School
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9am – 12:30pm Only
Preschool
Three-Day (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) OR
Five-Day: Monday - Friday
Half-day schedule: 8:30am – 11:30am
Lunch Bunch: 8:30am – 1pm
Full-day: 8:30am - 3pm
Extended Day: 8:30am - 5pm
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2 ½ to 4 Years
Preschool
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Through play of all kinds (imaginative, small group, messy/sensory, child-led and teacher-guided), art, plenty of outside time, and with a focus on the interests of the children, students are practicing social interactions, exploring new concepts and are exposed to simple models of math, science, reading and writing. The classroom environment provides freedom and choices, inviting children to develop their interests and confidence while navigating a gentle and caring home away from home as their first school experience. Yoga, art, bake/science days, and music are also integrated into the program to balance the child’s mind, body, and spirit.
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Three-Day (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) OR
Five-Day (Monday - Friday)
Half-day schedule: 8:30am – 11:30am
Lunch Bunch: 8:30am – 1pm
Full-day: 8:30am - 3pm
Extended Day: 8:30am - 5pm
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2 ½ to 4 Years
Pre-Kindergarten
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In this program, we keep our fundamental elements the same while also incorporating more sophisticated art projects, Montessori practical life and math works, messy tactile play, creative play, yoga, and bake/science experiments into our weekly schedule. We connect at morning circle, and work to create a dynamic and engaging “family” here at River School, where we are all constantly both engaged with and learning from one another. Outdoor play and nourishing our physical bodies in our nearby Royal River Park are all important elements in our day of learning.
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Full-Week Only: Monday - Friday
Time Options:
Lunch Bunch: 8:30 a.m. – 1pm
Full-Day: 8:30am – 3pm
Extended Day: 8:30am - 5pm
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4 to 5 Years
The classrooms are home-like and set up to support imaginative play, learning and the creative process. The atmosphere of River School is intimate, engaging and cozy.
The balance of loose parts play areas, the maker’s table and open-ended play nooks invites children to choose what they feel drawn to in the given moment.
The children practice yoga and mindfulness weekly, guiding them through explorations of their strong bodies and the power of their breath.
Nature-Based Learning: Children spend significant time outdoors exploring and connecting with the natural world.
Child-Led Inquiry: Lessons evolve based on the interests and curiosity of the children.
Creative Expression: Art, music, movement, and storytelling are woven into daily activities.
Strong Community: We foster deep connections between children, families, and teachers.
Sample Daily Rhythm
8:30 AM – Arrival & Free Play, Art, Music, or Baking
9:20 AM – Classroom Clean-up
9:30 AM – Handwashing, Snack & Community
10:00 AM – Free Play and Reading
10:30 AM – Morning Circle
11:00 AM – Outside Play
12:00 PM – Lunch
12:30 PM – Quiet Play Time
1:00 PM – Lunch Bunch Pick-up
1:30 - 3:00 PM – Nap Time
3:00 PM – Full-Day Pick-up
5:00 PM – Extended Day Pick-up
Enrichment
River is also home to Kat Gillie’s Bread and Roses Art Collective, a studio where the children’s artistic spirits soar. They use the pottery wheel, and work with many mediums such as fabric, paint, clay, and items from nature to create magical murals and cherished pieces.
Ms. Kat also teaches River kids all about the history of art, the importance of community, and provides unique art experiences that directly tie in to what we are learning in the classroom and outdoors!