Mendham Country Day School offers two Early Childhood Programs. There is a full time infant program and a preschool program.
The infant program has two levels. The young infants, ages 2 weeks to about 14 months. At this level all babies are on the schedule that is appropriate for their age and development. Developmental activities are planned for each baby both individually and as part of a group. The older infants, ages 14 months to 28 months. These babies function as a group. All eating, sleeping and playing at the same time. At this level motor and language develop- ment and the acquisition of social skills are encouraged.
The Preschool Programs
PreK2 - This is the entry level for preschool. Children need to be 2.5yrs old by September 1st of the school year. The children are introduced to colors, shapes, letters, numbers and experience music, story time and group play in a gently structured manner. The development of social skills, listening skills and the proper use of language prepares the child for the next level of learning.
PreK3 - Children need to be 3years old and completely "potty trained" by September 1st of the school year. At this level the children are introduced to the upper and lower case alphabet, beginning sounds, numbers to 50, math, science, social studies, Spanish and computer.
PreK4 - This program uses Kindergarten text and materials. Language Arts is a large part of this program. Language inspires a desire in children to unlock the code of printed symbols on a page, and to begin to use letters and words to express their thoughts and experiences. Teachers build on each child's innate pleasure in words, establishing a positive foundation for speaking, listening, reading and writing. Math, science, social studies, art, music, Spanish and computer round out the reminder of the curriculum.
Early Kindergarten-This program is designed for the child that is at least four years old and is ready for a full-day program. The program uses Kindergarten materials to introduce, enhance and improve students' understanding of initial consonant sounds, letters, word and number recognition, letter and number formation. Mathematical concepts are integrated into daily classroom experiences. Science, social studies, computer, Spanish, art, music and physical education encourage students to stretch their educational experiences.
Development of interpersonal relationships and a sense of community are very important in the preschool years. We embrace each child individually, nurturing a zest for learning, a willingness to take risks, and above all, a sense of curiosity about the world around us. We instill in the children a sense of respect for and an awareness of the needs of the school community. We help the children to become group learners, effective problem solvers, thoughtful decision-makers and good citizens. The children experience many situations that help them to grow and develop into empathic, compassionate and caring individuals.
