JK & Kindergarten at Princeton Academy
Introducing Our Junior Kindergarten Program
Our Junior Kindergarten program is designed to nurture the whole child socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually while fostering a love of learning.
Children engage in play-based learning focused on social, emotional, and cognitive development. Through a thoughtful balance of guided academic experiences and hands-on exploration, including early pre-literacy and foundational math skills, children build the skills and confidence they need to enter kindergarten ready to thrive.
Families can expect a program where curiosity is encouraged, friendships are nurtured, and foundational skills are introduced in ways that are engaging and developmentally appropriate. By supporting the growth of the whole child, our Junior Kindergarten program lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning while honoring each child’s unique pace of development.
Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten readiness is an important conversation for parents and when partnering with experienced educators, families can make the best decision for their son as he begins his educational journey as a lifelong learner. A child who is developmentally ready will be socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually ready. These areas are mutually supportive and should advance in concert avoiding a concentration on simply one aspect of a child’s growth.
Should we be looking for a junior kindergarten and kindergarten program that focuses on academics or play?
Balance... A family should be looking for a program that offers a clear and thoughtful academic program that meets the needs of the learner and stretches his thinking. These outcomes should be equally paired with opportunities for self-exploration, play, and socialization. A positive and supportive learning environment for young children will respect each child and their developmental level and recognize the unique pace of growth of the whole child.
Without Princeton Academy, there is no way I could have gained the strong appreciation of academics and community that I will always hold dear. The teachers, the extracurricular programs, the friendships – all that Princeton Academy offered me has stuck with me and helped me grow as a true individual. Princeton Academy has molded me into a person who knows the value of always doing the right thing and of always treating others with respect.
- Princeton Academy Alum
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Is my son ready?
Children who are ready should be able to:
- Be away from you all day
- Express feelings and needs to adults other than parents
- Take turns
- Wait their turn
- Work/play independently without a lot of adult supervision
- Take care of toileting needs independently
- Listen quietly to a book and engage in conversation about it
- Follow two-step directions
- Negotiate conflict with peers during play
What are the benefits of an all-boys’ junior kindergarten and kindergarten versus coed?
Being able to solely focus on developmental needs (academically, physically, social-emotionally) during this fundamental and foundational time period is paramount. Not having to compare themselves and their development with girls offers boys a safe and nurturing space to learn, make mistakes, take safe risks, and develop at a pace that is comfortable for them.
A kindergarten program that understands the particular learning needs and drivers for boys can allow those boys to blossom without some of the pressure that might be perceived in a coed class due to the fact that girls are often ahead in language development. A single-sex environment is less complicated for boys as they learn to negotiate social situations and regulate emotions. Visit our Why All Boys School page to learn more about how Princeton Academy thrives in a single sex education environment.