What is a day like in Saint Joseph Catholic Preschool?
Arrival - 8:15 a.m. and 12:25 p.m. Parents “sign in” and children begin quiet seatwork or play until everyone arrives
First Circle Time - 8:35-9:00 a.m. and 12:35-1:00 p.m.
The class meets together on the rug. We open circle time with a prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. We continue with calendar activities, discussing the weather, and sharing our thoughts and feelings. Our circle time includes Bible lessons, language development, stories, science, math and social studies activities that are based around our weekly themes (for three-year-old class) and Letter of the Week (for four-year-old class).
Group Time Learning - 9:05-9:25 a.m. and 1:05-1:25 p.m.
The children move to tables for art and writing activities. Our daily creative art project reinforces concepts that correlate to our theme or Letter of the Week.
Outside Time - 9:30-9:55 a.m. and 1:30-1:55 p.m.
Children play outside on the playground whenever the weather permits. If it is too cold to go outside, we will do an indoor activity that enhances large muscle development.
Snack - 10:00-10:15 a.m. and 2:00-2:15 p.m.
This is a great time for children to practice good manners. They wait until everyone is served, then say Grace to signal the start of their snack. Self-help skills are promoted and children learn to clean up after themselves.
Free Choice at Center Areas - 10:15-10:45 a.m. and 2:15- 2:45 p.m.
This playtime offers children the opportunity to choose any area within the room to explore. The activity areas they can choose from include: art, sensory table, science, housekeeping, dramatic play, blocks, trucks, fine motor manipulative, math and puzzles. Extra activities will vary day to day and may include play dough, bubbles, games or flannel board. This free time in the classroom encourages children to socialize and interact with their classmates.
Closing Circles - 10:45-11:00 a.m. and 2:45-3:00 p.m.
Children gather for a final prayer and dismissal.
