Kindergarten
In kindergarten, the focus is on the whole child through a balanced, developmentally appropriate approach. Teachers foster a caring community where students feel safe, valued, and ready to learn. The cornerstones of early education include social learning through Purposeful Play, early foundational learning through literacy and math, and hands-on learning and social skills development. Daily lessons build early reading, writing, and math skills to set a strong academic foundation and give kindergarteners the tools they need to grow as early readers, thinkers, and problem-solvers.
Screen time is kept to a minimum in kindergarten, using devices only when it supports learning goals. Click the link to learn more about technology changes for kindergarten in Huntley 158 starting with the 2025-26 school year.
Below is some information about Purposeful Play. Go back to the Elementary page to learn about math, literacy and more in kindergarten and in all elementary grade levels.
Purposeful Play
Purposeful Play in kindergarten is a teaching approach that recognizes the importance of play in a child's development. Students explore, create, and learn through hands-on activities and games that spark curiosity and imagination. Play is how young children make sense of the world. In our classrooms, play a vital part of learning. Learn more about Purposeful Play here.
Importance of Purposeful Play
There are many benefits of play that directly impact students. These include:
- holistic development
- active learning
- social skill building
- language development
- cognitive skill building
- emotional regulation
How Purposeful Play Works
Purposeful Play is initially delivered through a kindergarten camp approach during the first three weeks of school allowing for:
- extended time to focus on transitions, routines, and expectations
- a flexible daily schedule inclusive of teacher-directed and student-choice activities
- exposure to the building blocks of academics
As the school year progresses, kindergarten students will increase the amount of time focused on academic concepts, but continue to have daily dedicated purposeful play opportunities. By prioritizing play, students will have an increased chance to build the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the future.