About
Our Developmental Kindergarten (DK) program at Parkside Early Childhood Center provides your child with the "gift of time"- a unique opportunity to grow, explore, and thrive in a nurturing learning environment.
DK is a bridge year between preschool and kindergarten. Unlike kindergarten where academic mastery is expected, DK focuses on: exposure to academic content, pacing that supports development and time for social-emotional growth.
DK students are not expected to master all content- they are given time to develop the skills they will need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
If your child could benefit from an additional year to grow, DK may be the perfect fit!
What makes DK special?
In Developmental Kindergarten, your child will experience:
- A positive, safe and nurturing environment.
- Fun, hands-on learning that is rich in math and literacy.
- A curriculum that is differentiated to meet individual needs.
- A strong focus on social-emotional development.
We help children to:
- Build confidence and independence.
- Grow friendships and social skills.
- Increase stamina for learning.
- Develop focus and listening skills.
A day in the life of a DK student.
Every day in DK is filled with active, sensory-rich learning experiences that support your child's development.
Whole Group Learning:
- Interactive lessons with movement, songs and stories.
- Carpet time to build listening skills and respect for others' personal space.
- Read-alouds that spark discussion and imagination.
Small Group Learning:
- Personalized instruction in reading, writing and math.
- Intervention and enrichment groups tailored to each child's needs.
Curricula We Use:
- ZooPhonics
- Handwriting Without Tears
-Heggerty Phonemic Awareness
- Story Champs
- CKLA Knowledge Lessons and Extension Activities
- Reading & Writing Workshops
- Intentional Read Alouds
Language Arts Focus
DK students learn foundational language arts concepts using a variety of curricula. Key concepts include:
- Letter and sound recognition
- First name writing
- Rhyming and oral storytelling
- Showing interest in books
- Proper pencil grip
- Building writing and reading stamina
- Demonstrating knowledge of print concepts
Math Matters Too!
DK students learn foundational math concepts using the EveryDay Math curriculum. Key concepts include:
- Counting and number sense
- Patterns and shapes
- Measurement and early operations
Social-Emotional Learning is at our core.
We help students build lifelong SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) skills through:
- Second Step: puppets, role-play, and real-life scenarios.
- Sanford Harmony ("Z the Alien"): A fun, story-based curriculum.
- The Social Express: Interactive animated lessons.
- Daily read-alouds & real life practice.
SEL Expectations for DK students:
- Exhibits self-control.
- Shows active involvement in the learning process.
- Shows respect for adults and other students.
- Follows adult directions.
- Works cooperatively.
- Organizes self, materials and belongings.
- Uses time wisely.
- Uses good judgement in asking for help.
- Gives personal best towards classroom work.
Specials, Recess & Free Choice
- Art , PE, Music and Library are part of the regular schedule.
- We have twice daily recess - rain, snow or shine!
- Free Choice Time takes place every day. Play builds creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. Choices in the classroom include: block area, dramatic play, art, books and more!
Communication & Technology
We use Seesaw to share daily classroom moments and to keep in touch with parents and guardians.
IPads are used in the classroom setting for learning activities when developmentally appropriate.
