Kindergarten Curriculum
Play-Based Learning & Early Childhood Development
The Kindergarten curriculum is structured as a comprehensive, thematic approach to early childhood education, focusing on developing the whole child through engaging, play-based learning experiences that nurture curiosity, creativity, and foundational skills.
Kindergarten Key Milestones & Development Focus
Academic Milestones
- School readiness and social skills development
- Play-based learning and exploration
- Language and communication foundations
- Creative expression and imagination
Assessment Focus Areas
- Observational assessment through play
- Portfolio documentation of growth
- Social-emotional development tracking
- Hands-on learning experiences
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A comprehensive, integrated approach to early childhood education designed to ensure positive and successful educational transitions for every child in the OECS region.
Curriculum Philosophy & Vision
Vision for an Educated Person
Persons in the OECS will reach their full potential academically, socially, culturally, emotionally, spiritually and physically to support success in their lives.
- Future-oriented lifelong learners with 21st Century skills
- Attends to well-being of self and others
- Demonstrates respect for diversity and inclusion
Play-Based Learning Approach
Play is the foundation of all learning in kindergarten and the most appropriate means by which children can engage in meaningful learning experiences.
"Children come to school as active thinkers, possessing natural curiosity and eagerness to learn. Through play, children exhibit control that reflects their developmental needs, building self-confidence and security in learning."
Citizenship
- • Engaged, responsible citizenship
- • Cultural heritage appreciation
- • Democratic participation
- • Community contribution
Critical Thinking
- • Problem-solving approaches
- • Effective communication
- • Ethical interactions
- • Creative thinking
Well-being
- • Healthy, active lifestyle
- • Self-care strategies
- • Individual well-being
- • Collective well-being
Knowledge & Skills
- • Multiple literacies
- • Entrepreneurial thinking
- • Technology integration
- • Flexible application
Foundational Learning Principles
Equitable
All learners have access to opportunities that support continued growth, regardless of background. Learning is built on prior knowledge and respects unique abilities.
Meaningfully Constructed
Learning occurs in safe, supportive environments that develop self-confidence and motivation. Promotes holistic development and joy for learning.
Deep & Comprehensive
Active, engaging learning with sustained opportunities for critical thinking. Values curiosity, creativity, and cross-curricular connections.
Integrated Subject Areas
All subject areas are woven together through thematic units for meaningful, connected learning
Language Arts
Listening, Speaking, Reading, Viewing, Writing & Representing
Mathematics
Number Sense, Operations, Patterns, Geometry, Measurement & Data
Science
Forces & Motion, Ecosystems, Weather & Climate
Social Studies
Historical-Cultural Thinking, Civic Participation, Spatial Thinking
Assessment Philosophy
Learner-Centred
- • Positive and affirming
- • Builds on learner confidence
- • Acknowledges unique strengths
- • Developmentally appropriate
Informs Learning
- • Monitors progress
- • Provides transparent feedback
- • Identifies learning gaps
- • Guides teaching decisions
Balanced Approach
- • Multiple assessment strategies
- • Observation, conversation, products
- • Formative and summative
- • Self and peer assessment
Sample Kindergarten Daily Structure
A balanced approach supporting social-emotional development alongside academic learning
Opening & Morning Meeting
Devotion and daily planning
Language Arts
Whole group, small group, individual learning
Mathematics
Stand-alone skills and integrated activities
Integrated Unit Time
Project work, exploration, role play
Physical Education
Wellness and movement activities
Review & Celebration
Reflection and next day preparation
Note: This structure provides routine while allowing flexibility for individual needs and developmental differences. Choice time and creative arts are integrated throughout the day.
Kindergarten Overview Document
Download the official OHPC Kindergarten Guidelines document for comprehensive curriculum information
OHPC Kindergarten Guidelines
Official document updated November 14, 2024
PDF format • Comprehensive curriculum details
What's included: Complete kindergarten curriculum framework, learning objectives, assessment strategies, thematic units, and teaching methodologies aligned with OECS standards.
Thematic Learning Units
Belonging Unit
September-October (5 weeks)
Essential Question:
"Is it important to belong?"
Children explore identity, family, school, and community connections through engaging activities that help them understand their place in the world.
Key Topics
Weather Unit
November-December (5 weeks)
Essential Question:
"Is the weather important?"
Children investigate weather patterns, seasons, and how weather affects daily life through observation, experimentation, and creative expression.
Key Topics
Celebrations Unit
January-February (4 weeks)
Essential Question:
"What do I like about celebrations with my family?"
Children explore family celebrations, cultural traditions, and community events, developing an appreciation for diversity and shared experiences.
Key Topics
Plants and Animals Unit
March-April (5 weeks)
Essential Question:
"How do plants and animals make a difference to me and my world?"
Children discover the characteristics, needs, and habitats of plants and animals through hands-on exploration, observation, and care activities.
Key Topics
Games Unit
May-June (5 weeks)
Essential Question:
"How do games help us learn and grow?"
Children engage with games that promote physical, social, and cognitive development, learning cooperation, problem-solving, and motor skills.
Key Topics
Curriculum Organization
Weekly Organization
Each unit is broken down into weekly themes that build upon each other:
- Week 1: Introduction to the unit's core concepts
- Weeks 2-4: Exploration of specific aspects of the theme
- Final Week: Integration and synthesis of learning
Daily Structure
Each day follows a consistent structure to provide routine and comprehensive learning:
- Morning Circle: Introduction to the day's focus
- Literacy Activity: Language and literacy development
- Math Activity: Numeracy and mathematical thinking
- Content Activity: Science, art, or social studies
- Closing Circle: Reflection and consolidation
Learning Components
Each unit integrates multiple learning domains to support holistic development:
- Learning Objectives: Specific, measurable outcomes
- Key Vocabulary: Essential terms children should learn
- Assessment Strategies: Methods to evaluate understanding
- Materials and Resources: Teaching tools and supports
Kindergarten Additional Resources
Supporting materials and tools for Kindergarten education
Assessment Tools
Observational assessment tools and developmental checklists for kindergarten milestones
Teacher Resources
Play-based activities and thematic teaching materials for kindergarten educators
Parent Guides
Resources to help parents support their kindergarten students' early learning journey
Curriculum Download
Download PDF versions of kindergarten thematic unit plans and teaching materials