Frequently Asked Questions

What is the philosophy of kindergarten at Meadows?

We believe that the basis of a kindergarten program should be focused on embracing the uniqueness of the young child and provide opportunities for each child to become a lifelong, self-directed, enthusiastic and creative learner. For more information we have included some materials at the back of this packet.

How do you accomplish this? Or What is the curriculum?

The Manhattan Beach Unified School District Kindergarten Curriculum Guide states

"Young children learn best if they have the opportunity to know something in a variety of ways. They should be given the opportunities in the curriculum to know

-through language

-through thinking and problem solving

-through touching

-through feeling

-through seeing

-through hearing

Curriculum needs to :

-be standards based

-integrate content areas

-be constructed around a theme

-have an integration of development skills used for learning accommodated for in the curriculum and the standards"

OK so what are the content areas?

Language Arts (oral language, reading and writing), Mathematics, History/ Social Science, The Arts, Science, Health/Drug Education and Physical Education.

What do the different colored tables mean?

This is how we incorporate the content areas into our program.

Green-Writing

Red-Math

Blue-Art

Orange-Science and Social Science

Yellow-Reading

What is the schedule of activities for the day?

Each day we follow our daily schedule (enclosed)

Is this the same everyday?

Yes! Children learn best in an environment that is predictable and consistent. The schedule remains the same, but our learning grows and expands with each weekly theme. Changes in our schedule are discussed at the beginning of our day.

Can I volunteer?

Yes! We need your help during Center Time-please fill out the volunteer form and return this to us. We have set up a volunteer workstation with instructions. It is a pleasure to have you help your child and other students in the classroom. There will also be times where we need special volunteers. Perhaps you can volunteer to help out on a field trip or a committee? We also have many special classroom days planned and we would love the extra help.

I will not be able to volunteer, can I donate items to the classroom or take work home to do?

Yes! Please indicate this on the volunteer response form and we will be in touch with you.

Does my child need to bring a snack?

Yes! Send your child with a healthy snack and drink. Snacks should be placed on the picnic bench outside the classroom in a labeled lunchbox or bag before class begins. No sugary items please! No sodas!

Tell me about kindergarten Report Cards?

We have three reporting periods. The first is a parent teacher conference report in December. Report Cards go home in March and June.

How do you celebrate birthdays in the class?

Students may bring in a birthday book to donate to our class. We will read this book on their birthday. Summer birthdays are celebrated in June. Our school policy does not allow students to bring in food (such as cake, or special treat) to school in celebration of birthdays.

I am a musician, storyteller, artist, cook…..can I volunteer my services to the class.

Absolutely! We are honored and amazed by the talents that you bring to our classroom. The children really enjoy when you share this with us.