Our play-based structured program offers children the best of both worlds:

• Plenty of free choice playtime
  encourages children to explore,
  play and learn in their own unique
  way.
  
• During group times, children develop fundamental social skills. They learn
  to take turns, share, listen well and
  to be responsible contributing
  members of a group.
  

In addition, the separate classes for 3, 4 and 5 year olds allows teachers to focus on the unique developmental needs of each age group.

“Sharing Time”

Sharing time is the highlight of the day for many children at St. Mark’s, but it is more
than just the chance to share a favorite new toy. Sharing boosts verbal skills, builds confidence as children learn to talk in a group, and it teaches them to be attentive listeners.

Kindergarten Preparedness

There is more to being ready for kindergarten than just knowing the ABCs.  At St. Mark’s, we take a “whole child” approach to kindergarten preparedness. In addition to teaching the fundamentals (numbers, letters, shapes and colors), we focus on social and emotional development. 

Each spring, our Director sits down with each child to do an individualized assessment of his or her readiness for kindergarten.