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.
Use our AI-powered kindergarten lesson planner to create engaging, standards-aligned lesson plans tailored to your students' needs and learning objectives.
Create Lesson PlanA comprehensive, integrated approach to early childhood education designed to ensure positive and successful educational transitions for every child in the OECS region.
Persons in the OECS will reach their full potential academically, socially, culturally, emotionally, spiritually and physically to support success in their lives.
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."
All learners have access to opportunities that support continued growth, regardless of background. Learning is built on prior knowledge and respects unique abilities.
Learning occurs in safe, supportive environments that develop self-confidence and motivation. Promotes holistic development and joy for learning.
Active, engaging learning with sustained opportunities for critical thinking. Values curiosity, creativity, and cross-curricular connections.
All subject areas are woven together through thematic units for meaningful, connected learning
Listening, Speaking, Reading, Viewing, Writing & Representing
Number Sense, Operations, Patterns, Geometry, Measurement & Data
Forces & Motion, Ecosystems, Weather & Climate
Historical-Cultural Thinking, Civic Participation, Spatial Thinking
A balanced approach supporting social-emotional development alongside academic learning
Devotion and daily planning
Whole group, small group, individual learning
Stand-alone skills and integrated activities
Project work, exploration, role play
Wellness and movement activities
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.
Download the official OHPC Kindergarten Guidelines document for comprehensive curriculum information
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Each unit is broken down into weekly themes that build upon each other:
Each day follows a consistent structure to provide routine and comprehensive learning:
Each unit integrates multiple learning domains to support holistic development:
Supporting materials and tools for Kindergarten education
Observational assessment tools and developmental checklists for kindergarten milestones
Play-based activities and thematic teaching materials for kindergarten educators
Resources to help parents support their kindergarten students' early learning journey
Download PDF versions of kindergarten thematic unit plans and teaching materials
