What is Junior Kindergarten?
Junior Kindergarten (JK) is an early education grade. It’s usually for 4-5 year olds with late summer and fall birthdays. JK adds more structure than preschool with focus more on early reading, writing, and math while incorporating hands-on science activities and opportunities to practice social skills. This gets them ready for the demands of kindergarten.
Junior Kindergarten allows kids to learn by exploring and being active while learning through playing. Our small class size provides opportunities for teachers to support each child’s needs. Building foundational skills in reading, math, and social skills will help in a successful transition to kindergarten and the later years.
How is JK different from preschool?
While JK builds on preschool lessons, there are differences. JK focuses on increasing academic skills, especially in reading and math. JK has longer days to get the children ready for those demands, as well as providing time to work with the teachers. Teachers will provide direct instruction and support for the children using modified kindergarten standards based on the children’s needs.
Junior Kindergarten is the first year of a two year kindergarten experience. Most children will go on to kindergarten after completing JK, however some children may move to first grade if the school and the family agree that they are ready.