Kindergarten

Kindergarten at Fessenden is about building on boys’ enthusiasm for school and providing them with educational experiences that will fuel their academic progress for years to come. We recognize that, at this age, play is integral in building a foundation for literacy, critical thinking, and a sense of community—so we incorporate opportunities for creativity and imagination, along with physical exercise and self-expression, each day.

We nurture and challenge boys in ways that are appropriate for Kindergarteners, and that prepare them for the more independent learning that will occur in the later grades. There’s nothing like seeing boys take ownership, smiling from ear to ear when they realize what they can accomplish on their own.

Work and play are not mutually exclusive in Kindergarten. Our curriculum focuses on the building blocks of reading and writing, as well as math, science, and social studies. We balance skill development with creative play, movement, and respect for one another and our community.

A typical Kindergarten day begins with recess and morning meeting, our time to set a positive tone for the day. Boys then transition to classroom responsibilities, literacy activities, snack, and “specials” (including Spanish, physical education, art, music, science, and library). Throughout the day, we integrate learning with creative play, and we build in ample time for rest, snacks and lunch, and recess.

Please note, students starting Kindergarten should be five years old by September 1 of the entering year.