WHY BARNERT?

After two years of transitions, pivots, and confusion, there has never been a more important time for children to experience the gifts provided by Barnert's transitional kindergarten (TK) program. Having piloted a new design this past year, we are now offering a Pre-K/TK.

Kindergarten is one of the first big transitions of your child's life.  Since Covid, we are finding that some children experiencing delays, discomfort, or a need for more individualized instruction. The small classroom and individualized attention offered through Barnert's Pre-K/TK program give children the extra support and time they need during this crucial developmental year.

For over 33 years, Barnert has applied its holistic approach to teaching students and preparing them for the transition to elementary school.  We strive to support and prepare children - cognitively, socially and emotionally - so they are ready for all that comes after Pre-K/TK. 

Our primary teacher is Orton Gillingham certified and experienced with both traditional classroom and remote instruction tools and techniques.  

WHO WOULD BENEFIT FROM BARNERT’S TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN?

 Barnert's kindergarten/TK program offers your child the gift of extra time before starting traditional kindergarten. 

If your child has a late summer/early fall birthday; would blossom from extra attention in a progressive environment; or doesn’t qualify for OT or speech/language services but could thrive with support, our program is perfect for you!

HOW DOES THE PREK/TK PREPARE THE CHILDREN?

• Students learn best when we raise our expectations. The gift of time allows children to master key skills they need before entering traditional kindergarten. Our program’s daily routine helps children work on critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. Their Barnert experience is filled with opportunities to build the social skills necessary to succeed when they begin traditional kindergarten.
• When reading, children will be responding to the material on a higher level. In math children will not only develop analytical skills, but will also utilize more abstract thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Our students are immersed in regular scientific inquiry through cooking, and weather exploration. Using an emergent curriculum, students often set the course of particular study through which they learn math, science, history, research and even Jewish values.

WHAT IS MEANINGFUL LEARNING IN TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN?

Children will:

Learn to represent knowledge by drawing pictures, building models and using body movements to demonstrate understanding. • Problem solve using puzzles and games, scribbling and writing, measuring, drawing and investigating.

Learn to collaborate effectively when faced with social situations in the classroom and on the playground. Research shows that children learn best in classrooms rich with opportunities for: pre-literacy/emergent reading, socialization, hands-on math, and executive functioning skills. Our children will explore different types of hands-on learning including learning centers, activity stations, and mini lesson formats.

WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE?

Monday through Friday,  9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Extended day options include 8-9 a.m and 3 - 5 p.m.
 

DOES MY FAMILY NEED TO BE JEWISH TO ENROLL?

No. Our program is open to everyone. However, Jewish content and experiences are woven into the curriculum, like making challah, celebrating Shabbat with the rest of the school, and learning about holidays and mitzvot.

WILL THERE BE HOMEWORK?

No. Our children will not have formal homework.

WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW?

Your children will be given the best year of their lives, surrounded by love in a community you trust!  

Have other questions or want to learn more?
Email schooloffice@barnerttemple.org or call (201) 848-1027.