Seven Areas of Learning
New Mexico Pre-K is a voluntary program funded by the State of New Mexico where children learn skills they need to be successful when they go to kindergarten. Teachers carefully plan activities based on what children need to learn in seven areas.
1
Literacy
Literacy development is at the heart of our preschool curriculum. We encourage children to explore language through listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities.
2
Science
Science in our preschool focuses on nurturing children's natural curiosity. Whether they are learning about the weather, animal habitats, or plants, science activities encourage them to observe, ask questions, and develop their understanding of how things work.
3
Numeracy
Numeracy activities introduce children to basic math concepts in a fun and engaging way. Through games, puzzles, and everyday interactions, children learn to recognize numbers, count objects, sort shapes, and explore measurements.
4
Physical Development, Health and Well-Being
Physical development is essential for young children, and we provide plenty of opportunities for them to move, play, and grow strong.
5
Aesthetic Creativity
Creativity blossoms in our preschool through art, music, and movement activities. Children are encouraged to express themselves using a variety of materials and techniques, whether they are painting, building, dancing, or singing.
6
Approaches to Learning
We focus on building skills that help children become lifelong learners. Through activities that promote independence, problem-solving, and critical thinking, children learn to approach challenges with curiosity and perseverance.
7
Self, Family and Community
Learning to interact with others is a vital part of early childhood education. Our preschool emphasizes the importance of social skills, such as sharing, empathy, and collaboration, helping children understand their role within a group.
What Can You Expect in Pre-K?
Children Play to Learn! Pre-K children are active and busy and learn best through play.
Teachers carefully arrange their rooms and plan activities that provide children with the opportunity to do lots of different things. You will see areas for:
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Building with blocks
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Reading
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Working with puzzles
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Writing
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Outdoor climbing
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Dramatic play
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Scientific investigations and whole group “Meeting Area”
Teachers plan activities for these areas that encourage children to:
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Explore
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Make decisions
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Problem solving
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Expand their vocabulary and get excited about learning.
Family Involvement
Pre-K teachers believe that parents, grandparents, and other adults in the family are children’s most important teachers. We invite family to be partners in preparing their child for school. In order to establish this partnership, you can expect pre-K teachers to:
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Perform a developmental screening to make sure your child is learning and growing as expected.
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Invite you to a Pre-K Orientation night to introduce themselves and talk about the program.
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Do a home visit at the beginning of the school year to get to know your child.
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Schedule parent meetings with you to review your child’s progress and share ways that you can support your child’s learning at home.
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Send notes, newsletters, and calendars home so that you know what is happening.
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Provide you with a parent handbook so that you know the program’s policies and procedures.
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Provide you with resources within the community that may help you if there are developmental concerns with your child.
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Provide you with information on where you can access dental, health, and other services you, your child, or family might need.
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All Pre-K programs provide children with a free nutritious meal–either breakfast or lunch. Meal times are a perfect learning opportunity, and teachers use meal time to teach a variety of skills and reinforce healthy habits like good manners, hand washing, and brushing teeth.
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Pre-K works! Parents and family are always telling us how thankful they are for the program, because they have seen how it has benefited their child.
Register My Child
If you would like to register your child for our Preschool program, enter your email below, and one of our staff members will reach out to you with more information.