Our bilingual preschool and prekindergarten programs dive into a rich, play-based curriculum of projects and investigations based on children’s interests. As their abilities and independence blossom, we meet our students with exciting challenges that ignite a passion for learning. We offer two tracks for dual-language immersion: Mandarin-English and Spanish-English.
Our educational philosophy draws inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach to early learning in the preschool (ages 3 to 5) and prekindergarten (ages 4 to 5) years. This emergent curriculum approach follows the children’s lead so that learning topics are always engaging. Putting the child at the center of their learning builds confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that transcends into their school years and beyond. The Reggio approach also prioritizes learning through relationships. We put a strong emphasis on collaboration not only between peers but also in the student-teacher relationship. A rich dialogue, open-ended questions, and a culture of listening are hallmarks of a Reggio classroom.
Children frequently access learning environments beyond the classroom, including our atelier (art studio), piazza (spacious indoor play area), playgrounds, and the neighborhood community, where they engage with specialist teachers in art, music, and movement. As with all age groups, we tend closely to children’s physical development with organic, plant-based food made daily in-house.
At Our Beginning School, we employ a bilingual education model called dual-language immersion. Similar to a bilingual family environment, English and the world language, either Spanish or Mandarin, are used naturally within the classroom. We aim for children to achieve practical language proficiency in the world language while also gaining a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the cultural nuances inherent in each language. We define practical language proficiency as the ability to understand and use words and phrases related to daily activities and routines that children commonly experience, such as playing, eating, sleeping, getting dressed, going to school, and spending time with family and friends.
A typical day in a preschool or prekindergarten classroom combines uninterrupted, free play with small-group learning and rich experiences in diverse environments. This structure creates a vibrant daily rhythm that meets the child’s essential needs for growth and development and sparks curiosity, joy, and a love of learning. We value time spent outdoors to foster a connection to the environment and provide children with the many health benefits it affords. Children spend at least 90 minutes outside each day, rain or shine. Weather-appropriate clothing is a must!
Here’s what a typical day looks like:
In preschool and prekindergarten, we focus on strengthening social-emotional intelligence, physical well-being, cognitive development, and academic readiness, as guided by Washington State standards for early learning. Embedded into our play-based curriculum are essential skills children need for kindergarten, from early mathematics to early literacy and physical skills. We focus on experiential learning through play rather than teacher-directed lessons, meeting children where they are and maintaining the joyful nature of childhood. By graduation, children are more than ready for kindergarten.
Nutrition is essential for healthy growth and development, especially in the early years. We invest in healthy foods for all children in our care. Our on-site organic kitchen prepares fresh, wholesome meals and snacks daily, ensuring your children receive the nourishment they need. Our menu offers a variety of flavors, textures, and recipes from different cultures to expand their palates, laying the foundation for a lifelong healthy relationship with food.
Reach out today to schedule a tour or learn more about our infant, toddler, preschool and prekindergarten programs centrally located in North Seattle.
(206) 547-1433
admissions@ourbeginning.com
123 NW 36th Street, Suite 120
Seattle, WA 98107