The program and classroom learning environments, both indoors and outside, support prior learning in meaningful activities that meet the Ontario Ministry of Education Kindergarten Program document (2016) expectations.
The Kindergarten program is based-on a foundation of play, which is essential to how children experience and make sense of their world. Play is a vehicle for learning and rests at the core of well-being, innovation and creativity. This program honours the active and exploratory learning styles of each young child. As children develop through similar stages at their own pace, this program provides learning experiences that meet individual curiosities, interests and developmental levels.
In the Kindergarten program, the classroom environment, teaching, learning, and assessment are structured around four “frames," or ways of being. Children’s learning is also evaluated and communicated to families in terms of these four frames. The frames - Belonging and Contributing, Self-Regulation and Well-Being, Demonstrating Literacy and Mathematics Behaviours, and Problem-Solving and Innovation, are conditions or ways of being that children naturally seek for themselves. What children learn in connection with all four frames lays the foundation for developing traits and attitudes they will need to become active, contributing, responsible citizens and healthy, engaged individuals who take responsibility for their own and others’ well-being.
Learn more about the Kindergarten program and play-based learning:
You can help your child prepare for the transition to Kindergarten by reviewing the following guides:
Starting Kindergarten is an exciting adventure for families. But beginning something new can also cause big feelings. Your child might be excited, nervous, scared, curious, or even shy. Managing your child's stress while they transition to Kindergarten. KFL&A and Hastings, Prince Edward Public Health created a useful video for parents, caregivers, and families of Kindergarten-aged children, particularly as they deal with the transition to school. View the "Let's Go to Kindergarten! Helping Your Child Manage Stress" video here.