Nurturing young learners, one small moment at a time

View Frequently Asked Questions about A Child's Garden

Thriving in a Group Setting

At New Garden Friends School, we know that children work and learn through play. In early school, our days are designed to encourage children to explore their surroundings both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers model problem solving and decision making by demonstrating appropriate language and behavior, helping our children learn the social skills necessary to thrive in group settings.

School Readiness: Work and Play

Hands-on, experiential centers such as building with blocks, playing in water and sand, dramatic play, working puzzles, creating things, and listening to and looking at books complement the classroom. Outside, children take walks in the nearby woods, ride tricycles, swing, climb the play structures, and visit and sing with residents at nearby Friends Homes. Small group and large group settings provide instruction in areas of interest such as science, music, pre-reading, and listening. Children can attend 3, 4, or 5 days each week, for full or half days.

Our Pre-K curriculum, Get Set for School, provides play-based instruction that engages young children and gives consistent opportunities for meaningful learning. Pre-academic skills in the areas of pre-reading, pre-writing and math are taught in an integrated approach to make learning meaningful and engaging.

Please see the Frequently Asked Questions for more information.

Expanding Horizons

Our youngest students enjoy story time in the library and have fun with Music, Spanish, Art and PE teachers. 

Spending time with “the big kids” is a favorite of our youngest students. The “Singing and Sharing” Service Learning group visits our preschool monthly, sharing a time of songs and outdoor play. Tag is more fun when a “big kid” is chasing you, you’ll get caught sooner, but in a mass of giggles! 

A ride across the street takes our preschoolers to Friends Homes. Once a month, they share their sweet voices and music with the residents. Music and children bring smiles and life to our elderly friends. These special visits are a gift to the children and residents alike.

Separating From Home and Connecting to School

For many families, A Child’s Garden is the first formal school experience. A relaxed transition into the school day allows parents to linger at drop-off, chat with a teacher, and observe briefly as their child becomes involved in classroom activities.

Gradually, a community develops as teachers begin to know children and children become accustomed to the routine, environment, and their teachers. Morning separations become simpler and children quickly become involved in morning activities upon arrival. Self-help skills such as learning to put on your coat, opening your lunch box, and putting your papers in your tote bag are all things that children begin to learn and master during the preschool years. Teachers provide the support for such accomplishments to occur.