Explore, discover, learn ... and have fun!

Welcome to the Friends Academy Early Childhood Program, the perfect space for our students ages 3, 4 and 5, where the children in both Play Group and Pre-K are brought together for many of the learning experiences in our program. This multi-age group atmosphere offers numerous benefits to all children. The older children become role models of positive behaviors as the younger children learn from them through observation. This peer mentoring is also beneficial in cognitive development and allows the children to thrive in a family-like environment.

The Early Childhood Program is comprised of our Play Group and Pre-K programs. Our Play Group welcomes our three-year-old members of the Friends Academy community, and our Pre-K program welcomes our four- and five-year-olds. Our program emphasizes the teaching of the whole child. Socialization, independence, and language development are fostered through hands-on activities and artistic and musical expression. Math and science skills are taught by guiding the children through dynamic exploration of their environment. Activities such as cooking, nature walks, and small group science and math center activities encourage the children to observe and investigate using their five senses. Our Quaker principles of respect for others, community service, and peaceful resolution of conflict are present in all of our everyday activities.

Our Early Childhood Program is uniquely located in the Withington House; a bright, sun-lit, warm and inviting Victorian-style house, that offers a dynamic learning environment comprised of modern amenities, and state-of-the-art technology such as SMART technology boards and HATCH interactive learning tables. Painting on outdoor easels, planting flowers in our outdoor garden, and running and playing in the fresh air in our gated play area are just some of the wonderful experiences that the children partake in outside of the Withington House.

The children in both our Play Group and Pre-K programs participate in special-area classes on a weekly basis. These classes include Spanish, Art, Physical Education, and Music. Introducing a world language and fine arts at an early age encourages children to be creative and expands their cultural experiences. Physical Education is important in helping the children to develop their gross motor coordination, and introduces them to the concept of team work.

The early years of a child's formal education are the foundation on which their academic future is built upon. A strong academic foundation will foster a lifelong love of learning and help our children develop the necessary skills for future academic success.

Click here to read editions of our 2010-11 "Life in the Lower School" e-letter.