Junior Kindergarten
A Bridge Between Preschool and Kindergarten
Junior Kindergarten at DKH Academy, also known as Transitional Kindergarten, serves as a bridge between preschool and kindergarten. It is often the first year of a two-year kindergarten program, designed to expose students to kindergarten concepts within a supportive, play-based curriculum. This program is ideal for children who will attend a full-day kindergarten program the following year.
What Makes Junior Kindergarten Special
In Junior Kindergarten, your child will experience a holistic approach to early education supported by a dedicated team of educators. This team includes a lead Junior Kindergarten teacher, an assistant teacher, a guided reading instructor, a Spanish teacher, an art teacher, and a Kid Fit instructor. Together, they create a well-rounded learning experience that nurtures every aspect of your child’s growth. Key program highlights include:
Kindergarten Readiness | The curriculum introduces foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving, ensuring children are well-prepared for their next academic step.
Guided Reading Program | Starting in January, students participate in small group sessions designed to strengthen early literacy skills and foster a love of reading.
Play-Based Learning | Through hands-on projects, thematic centers, and group activities, children are encouraged to explore, create, and develop critical thinking skills.
Connect With the Community | Visits from local professionals, like dentists and firefighters, teach children about health, safety, and community roles.
Outdoor Exploration | Daily time in our Certified Nature Explore Classroom promotes physical activity, imaginative play, and a connection with the natural world.
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Social-Emotional Growth | Classroom traditions, collaborative activities, and thoughtful interactions help children build confidence, empathy, and meaningful relationships.
A Typical Day in Junior Kindergarten
While schedules may vary, a day in Junior Kindergarten includes a mix of structured learning, creative play, and community-building activities. A sample day might look like this:
8:30 AM | Arrival & Morning Routine
Children settle in with activities that spark curiosity and set the tone for the day.
8:40 AM | Morning Recess
Outdoor play to promote physical activity and social interaction.
9:15 AM | Morning Meeting
A group gathering to introduce the day’s themes, including calendar and weather discussions.
9:30 AM | Snack & Learning Practice
Time to refuel, followed by focused lessons in literacy, math, or thematic concepts.
10:10 AM | Centers & Small Groups
Rotating activities that include art, dramatic play, and guided small group instruction.
11:30 AM | Spanish (Wednesdays)
Exposure to language and culture through engaging, age-appropriate lessons.​
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12:00 PM | Lunch
A time for nourishment and social connection.
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12:20 PM | Afternoon Recess
More outdoor play to energize and refresh.
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12:50 PM | Dismissal​
Reflecting on the day’s activities and preparing to head home.
Why Families Choose DKH
Families choose Junior Kindergarten at DKH Academy for its focus on nurturing the whole child through:
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A team of specialized educators who provide expert guidance in all areas of learning.
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A play-based curriculum that fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
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A strong emphasis on social-emotional development, ensuring children feel confident and connected.
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Daily opportunities for outdoor exploration in our Certified Nature Explore Classroom.
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Comprehensive preparation for full-day kindergarten, blending academic readiness with joyful learning experiences.