Curriculum
|
Kent Community Nursery School is a play-based program with an emphasis on nature and the social and emotional development of children.
Our daily schedule provides extended time for child-led exploration and learning, with most of our day spent outdoors. A typical day includes a morning walk, open play, circle time, quiet reading, songs, rhymes, and art making. We view the natural world as a key part of our curriculum, encouraging children to be scientists, artists, and explorers. The outdoors fosters collaboration and a deep appreciation for the world around them. We also prioritize social and emotional growth. Children are supported in expressing their feelings and learning to recognize them in themselves and others. Daily activities are designed to offer problem-solving experiences that build language skills, emotional literacy, and sensory awareness. Our classroom and outdoor space are carefully designed to be a "third teacher." We curate a welcoming, well-organized environment that inspires curiosity and encourages children to engage with materials and interact with one another. Our curriculum incorporates the rhythm of the seasons and the unique interests of our students. We introduce pre-reading and math concepts through songs and games, building a strong foundation for future learning. Children who complete our program gain foundational skills, respect for themselves and others, and the eagerness needed to thrive in kindergarten. |
Exploration and discovery
Individual and small group activities
Health education practice
|
Portfolios
At KCNS, we embrace the Reggio Emilia philosophy that a child's learning process is just as important as the final outcome. To make this learning visible, we create portfolios that document your child's journey.
Each portfolio is a thoughtful compilation of their artwork, photographs, and teacher observations that capture key moments of growth, exploration, and discovery. It is a keepsake that reflects the unique story of your child's learning and interests at KCNS, gifted to you at the end of the school year.
Each portfolio is a thoughtful compilation of their artwork, photographs, and teacher observations that capture key moments of growth, exploration, and discovery. It is a keepsake that reflects the unique story of your child's learning and interests at KCNS, gifted to you at the end of the school year.
Nature Day
At KCNS, we believe the world outside our walls is our most inspiring classroom. As part of this approach, our children spend one full day a month immersed in nature at the Eric Sloane Museum.
Children are encouraged to be curious explorers. They spend the day in the woods, observing insects and plants in the fields, collaborating on stick shelters, or investigating the riverbank. This is a day for hands-on discovery, confidence-building through new challenges, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Location: Eric Sloane Museum, 31 Kent Cornwall Road, Route 7, Kent, CT, (1 mile north of KCNS).
Schedule: One Friday per month.
Drop-off: 8:00 AM, directly at the museum.
Pick-up: 1:00 PM, directly at the museum.
Please note: On Nature Day, KCNS closes at 1:00 PM for staff professional development.
Children are encouraged to be curious explorers. They spend the day in the woods, observing insects and plants in the fields, collaborating on stick shelters, or investigating the riverbank. This is a day for hands-on discovery, confidence-building through new challenges, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Location: Eric Sloane Museum, 31 Kent Cornwall Road, Route 7, Kent, CT, (1 mile north of KCNS).
Schedule: One Friday per month.
Drop-off: 8:00 AM, directly at the museum.
Pick-up: 1:00 PM, directly at the museum.
Please note: On Nature Day, KCNS closes at 1:00 PM for staff professional development.
|
|
|
|
KCNS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) early education center.
6 Bridge Street, PO Box 594, Kent, CT 06757 860-927-1294 [email protected]
Parents/guardians have granted permission for all photos on our website.
6 Bridge Street, PO Box 594, Kent, CT 06757 860-927-1294 [email protected]
Parents/guardians have granted permission for all photos on our website.
