RTNS Kindergarten Prep

The Kindergarten Prep program is designed for children who are either not yet ready for the structure of a traditional kindergarten setting, who do not meet the age requirements for other kindergarten programs, or who are kindergarten-ready but would thrive from one more year in a nurturing, play-based environment before entering first grade.

This intentional “bridge year” gives children time to grow, develop confidence, and build foundational skills in a setting that honors movement, creativity, and child-led learning.

Our full-day Kindergarten Prep program at RTNS is thoughtfully designed for children who would benefit from the gift of an extra year before entering kindergarten or first grade. This unique bridge year provides a nurturing space for children to grow academically, socially, and emotionally — with a curriculum that blends play-based exploration with intentional skill-building.

Rooted in the values of RTNS, Kindergarten Prep offers:

● Process-based art experiences
● Emergent curriculum based on children’s interests
● An approach that values the child as capable, curious, and full of potential
● Carefully selected content in literacy, math, handwriting, motor development, and social-emotional skills

Small Class Size, Dual-Certified Teachers

Kindergarten Prep is a small, supportive classroom taught by experienced educators certified in both General and Special Education. This allows us to meet children where they are and tailor the curriculum to support each child’s strengths, needs, and learning style.

Literacy & Language Foundations

Our literacy approach is multisensory, structured, and engaging, introducing children to uppercase letters, sounds, and letter formation in ways that support all types of learners. We combine movement, visual supports, and hands-on activities so that children connect meaningfully with letters and sounds.

Children also develop essential early literacy skills such as:

● Recognizing rhyming patterns
● Making predictions about a story based on its title and/or pictures
● Recognizing high-frequency words
● Isolating CVC (consonant-vowel-consonant) words
● Counting, pronouncing, and blending syllables in spoken words

This balanced approach builds a strong foundation for reading and writing, while keeping learning joyful and accessible.

Math as Exploration

Our math workshops include whole group mini-lessons, small group practice, and hands-on activities that nurture curiosity and problem-solving. Topics include:

● Counting
● Patterns
● Number recognition
● Shape identification
● Collaborative math games and challenges

Worktime: The Power of Play

We believe that play is the work of childhood. Every day includes choice-based play (worktime), where children engage in:

● Painting and open-ended art
● Block building and construction
● Sensory play and loose parts
● Dramatic play
● Light and shadow exploration

These activities support creativity, collaboration, and deep learning through self-directed discovery.

Enrichment & Community Connections

Each week, Kindergarten Prep students participate in:

● Music
● Gardening
● Movement
● Sports & Gross Motor Time
● Small group enrichment learning
● Social skills groups

In addition, children work throughout the year with our Special Education Support Teacher, who provides natural opportunities to strengthen social skills, foster collaboration, and support each child’s growth in a positive, inclusive way.

We are also committed to preparing every child for success in their next school environment. Families can choose enrichment opportunities tailored to the specific skills their child will need. For example, if a future school places greater emphasis on Hebrew, we can integrate additional Hebrew learning into the child’s experience at RTNS, ensuring they leave confident, prepared, and ready to thrive.

Jewish Learning and Community

Jewish values, traditions, and culture are woven gently and meaningfully into the fabric of each day in Kindergarten Prep. Our approach to Jewish education is experiential, joyful, and rooted in community. Through stories, songs, celebrations, and shared rituals, children begin to build a connection to Jewish life and identity.

Each week, students join together for Shabbat in the sanctuary with our 2s classes — a joyful time filled with music, blessings, and a sense of togetherness. Throughout the year, children explore Jewish holidays and traditions in ways that are age-appropriate and hands-on, often through art, cooking, storytelling, and dramatic play.

Kindergarten Prep students also learn about tikkun olam (repairing the world), kindness, gratitude, and community responsibility through classroom conversations, social-emotional work, and collaborative projects. Our goal is to help each child develop a warm and positive foundation in Jewish life, while honoring every family’s background and level of observance.

For more information and tuition information, contact the Director at director@riverdaletemplens.org.