How Our UPK Program Works: Structure + Play-Based Learning

Our UPK program is thoughtfully designed to balance predictable routines with meaningful, play-centered learning. Four-year-olds learn best when they feel safe, know what to expect, and are given time to explore, talk, and play. Each day follows a consistent structure so children feel confident and secure, while play is used as the primary way children build language, social skills, and early academic understanding.

Through guided play, hands-on activities, and daily routines, children develop independence, problem-solving skills, and a love of learning—all while meeting early learning standards in a developmentally appropriate way.

A Typical Day in UPK

• Arrival & Welcome
  Students arrive by bus and are greeted by their teachers. This warm start helps children transition from home to school and begin the day feeling safe and supported. We gather together in the hall to sing our morning song. Then students had down to line up outside their rooms, under their name (picture) where they are responsible for getting themselves ready for the day.  They take off boots and put on their school shoes, unpack their water bottle and folder putting it in the basket before entering into the classroom to put all their stuff away. f

• Morning Meeting
  Once in the classroom we begin with our morning routine, which may include a greeting, songs, calendar, and sharing time. This builds community, language skills, and sets the tone for the day.  Within the first half hour of school, we head together to breakfast. 

• Breakfast/Lunch is Mealtime Learning
  Breakfast and lunch are an important part of our UPK curriculum. During mealtime, students learn independence, communication, and responsibility as they eat together as a community. Children practice using manners, trying new foods, following routines, and taking care of their space. These shared meals help build confidence, social skills, and a strong sense of belonging.

• Play-Based Learning Centers
  Children rotate through centers such as dramatic play, blocks, art, writing, science, and literacy. Teachers guide learning through play by asking questions, introducing new vocabulary, and supporting social interactions.

• Small-Group Instruction
  Teachers work with small groups of students to build early literacy, math, and fine-motor skills in a focused but engaging way.

• Outdoor Play
  When weather allows, students enjoy time outside on the playground and track area. Outdoor play supports physical development, cooperation, and social skills.

• Storytime & Language Activities
  Teachers read aloud, lead discussions, and engage children in songs, rhymes, and storytelling to strengthen listening and comprehension skills.

• Rest or Quiet Time
  Children have time to rest or engage in quiet activities. This helps them recharge and regulate their energy for the rest of the day.

• Closing Activities & Dismissal
  The day ends with reflection, songs, or a closing circle before students prepare to head home by bus.

Supporting Our Amazing 4-Year-Old Learners at Home

At four years old, children are learning at an incredible pace. Their brains are making new connections every day as they listen, talk, play, question, and explore the world around them. Language, early reading skills, and confidence grow fastest when learning feels natural, joyful, and connected to everyday life. The good news is that the small moments you already share at home make a big difference.

Here are some simple, meaningful ways families can support this rapid learning at home:

• Talk often and listen closely
  Engage your child in conversations throughout the day. Ask questions, listen to their ideas, and encourage them to share their thoughts.

• Read together every day
  Read favorite books again and again, talk about the pictures, and wonder aloud about the story. It’s about enjoying the experience together.

• Play and imagine
  Pretend play, building, and role-playing help children develop vocabulary, storytelling skills, and problem-solving.

• Sing, rhyme, and be silly
  Songs and rhymes build strong listening skills and help children hear patterns in language — all while having fun.

• Use everyday moments
  Cooking, shopping, driving, and cleaning are perfect opportunities to talk, name objects, follow steps, and describe what you’re doing.

• Encourage drawing and writing
  Let your child draw, scribble, or “write” freely. Ask them to tell you about their work and celebrate their effort.

• Model curiosity
  Wonder out loud, ask questions, and show excitement about learning. Children learn best when they see adults enjoying it too.

• Keep it playful and pressure-free
  Learning at this age happens best through play, routine, and positive encouragement — not worksheets or drills.

By creating a language-rich, playful environment at home, families help children build a strong foundation for reading, learning, and lifelong curiosity.