Community PreKindergarten - White Rock, BC

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a child need to know before entering preschool at Academics PreKindergarten?

Before entering preschool here at Academics PreK, a child should be equipped with a few fundamental skills and knowledge that will help them transition smoothly into a structured learning environment. Here are some key areas to focus on:

1. Basic Social Skills: Children should have some experience interacting with peers and adults outside of their immediate family. This includes sharing, taking turns, and understanding basic manners like saying “please” and “thank you.”

2. Self-Help Skills: Preschoolers benefit from knowing how to perform simple tasks independently. This includes washing hands, using the toilet, and putting on their shoes and coat. Encouraging independence in these areas boosts a child’s confidence and helps them adjust to a classroom setting.

3. Communication Skills: A child entering preschool should be able to express their needs and thoughts using simple sentences. Understanding basic instructions and being able to communicate with teachers and classmates is crucial for a positive preschool experience.

4. Basic Cognitive Skills: Familiarity with shapes, colors, numbers, and the alphabet gives children a head start in preschool learning. Recognizing their own name, understanding simple patterns, and having basic counting skills are also beneficial.

5. Emotional Readiness: Preschool can be a big step emotionally. Children should be prepared to spend time away from their parents and should be developing the ability to manage their emotions in a group setting.

By focusing on these areas, parents can help ensure that their child is ready to thrive at AcademicsPreK, setting the foundation for future academic and social success.

Is Academics PreK the same or similar to Montessori?

While our “Academics EDGE” program shares the Montessori emphasis on fostering independence and holistic growth, it differs in its structured, teacher-guided approach that specifically targets readiness for formal schooling.  We offer a distinct approach to early childhood education through our “Academics EDGE” program, which sets it apart from the Montessori method while still incorporating some similar principles:

• Structured Learning Environment: The Academics EDGE program is designed to provide a balanced and structured environment that helps children develop critical academic and social skills. Unlike the Montessori approach, which is more child-led, Academics EDGE offers a curriculum that is guided by educators to ensure that each child meets key developmental milestones.

• Comprehensive Skill Development: The program emphasizes a well-rounded preparation for school, focusing on early literacy, numeracy, and social skills, ensuring children are ready for the challenges of kindergarten and beyond. This contrasts with Montessori’s broader focus on self-directed exploration.

• Personalized Attention: While Montessori education allows children to progress at their own pace, Academics EDGE also emphasizes personalized learning. Teachers assess each child’s progress and provide targeted support to help them achieve their full potential.

• Holistic Growth: Similar to Montessori, our Academics EDGE program values the development of the whole child. However, it does so within a more structured framework, ensuring that each child gains the necessary skills and confidence to excel in a traditional school setting.

Get more answers to your questions here on our admissions page.