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Transitional Kindergarten Program at KLA Schools

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Transitional Kindergarten (TK): A Nurturing Bridge to Kindergarten

Our Transitional Kindergarten program provides a gentle and meaningful transition for children from preschool to kindergarten. With intentionally small class sizes, each child is seen, heard, and supported as they grow in confidence and independence.

By the time our TK students step into kindergarten, they are not only academically prepared but also emotionally grounded, self-aware, and eager to learn.

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A Look Inside Our Transitional Kindergarten Classrooms

Designed as the perfect transition, our Transitional Kindergarten program combines the care of preschool with the excitement of kindergarten readiness, setting the stage for a lifelong love of learning. Each classroom is intentionally designed to feel warm, welcoming, and full of possibility, where every child can grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy. With small class sizes and low teacher-to-student ratios, teachers truly get to know each child, providing the individualized attention and emotional support they need to thrive.

Our thoughtfully arranged spaces encourage hands-on learning and social-emotional growth through exploration and play:

  • Community corners: Spaces where children learn to communicate, share ideas, and build lasting friendships.
  • Discovery tables: Engaging materials that spark curiosity in early math, science, and problem-solving.
  • Art & creativity studios: Open-ended areas where imagination flows freely through paint, clay, and design.
  • Story nooks: Cozy spots that invite children to dive into books, develop language, and spark imagination.

We believe the environment is a “third teacher”, a space that invites curiosity, builds confidence, and helps children connect their learning to the world around them. Natural light, open layouts, and carefully chosen materials create a calm yet inspiring atmosphere where children feel safe to take risks, explore, and express themselves. Every day becomes a joyful opportunity to discover who they are as learners and friends, preparing them to step into kindergarten with excitement, confidence, and heart.

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Why Parents Choose Our Transitional Kindergarten Program

Our TK program emphasizes small class sizes and low teacher-to-child ratios, fostering a nurturing community that sets it apart from public TK settings. In our warm, engaging classrooms, children receive individual attention, build empathy and friendships, and develop confidence through hands-on exploration and collaboration. These experiences lay a strong social-emotional foundation that inspires curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Individualized Growth and Connection

Every child is known, valued, and supported. Our teachers tailor each experience to match individual strengths and interests, creating a sense of belonging and pride in their progress. With low ratios and intentional guidance, children build confidence while learning at their own pace.

Play-Based, Inquiry-Driven Learning

Learning happens best through joyful discovery. Our TK classrooms invite children to explore, question, and experiment through play-based, hands-on activities that introduce early literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking in meaningful, age-appropriate ways.

A Confident Step Into Kindergarten

Our TK students leave ready to shine. They are emotionally grounded, socially skilled, and eager to learn, equipped with curiosity, communication, and confidence that set the stage for success in kindergarten and beyond.

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Transitional Kindergarten Curriculum: Our Approach to Learning at KLA Schools

Guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, our curriculum inspires children to explore with curiosity, communicate with confidence, and approach every challenge with joy. Through playful, inquiry-based learning, we introduce the building blocks of literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking in ways that honor each child’s voice and potential. As they transition to kindergarten, our students carry with them a strong foundation: they are academically prepared, emotionally confident, and eager to learn.

Language and Literacy Development

Children strengthen early reading and writing skills through storytelling, journaling, letter recognition, and dramatic play. Group discussions and sharing promote listening, confidence, and clear communication, preparing students for kindergarten-level literacy.

Mathematics and Problem-Solving

Through movement, games, building, and real-world exploration, children develop foundational early math concepts, including counting, sorting, patterning, and measurement. These playful, hands-on experiences foster critical thinking, reasoning, and a love of learning.

Science and Discovery

Our young scientists learn by observing, predicting, and experimenting with the world around them. From nature walks to simple experiments, children explore how things work and build a sense of wonder and curiosity that connects learning to everyday life.

Creative Expression

Through art, music, and movement, children express themselves freely and joyfully. Painting, sculpting, singing, and storytelling foster imagination, coordination, and self-confidence, thereby encouraging creativity in all forms.

Social and Emotional Growth

Small class sizes and nurturing teachers create a strong sense of community, empathy, and independence. Collaboration and reflection help children develop teamwork, kindness, and self-awareness, forming the social-emotional foundation for lifelong learning.

At KLA Schools, our Transitional Kindergarten students grow into confident, curious learners who are academically prepared, emotionally grounded, and eager for the journey ahead.

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Teachers Who See, Support, and Celebrate Every Child

Passionate and experienced, our Transitional Kindergarten teachers create a welcoming space where every child’s growth, confidence, and individuality are celebrated. With backgrounds in early childhood education and a deep commitment to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, they understand that learning begins with connection.

Through observation and reflection, our educators design experiences that spark curiosity, nurture confidence, and honor each child’s unique learning style. They work closely with families to ensure consistency between home and school, fostering trust and community along the way. Guided by passion and purpose, our teachers help children grow into confident, joyful learners, ready to take their next step with excitement and ease.

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A Safe and Nurturing Space for Growing Minds

In our Transitional Kindergarten classrooms, children find both the comfort of security and the joy of independence that help them grow with confidence. Every detail, from the layout to the materials, supports both safety and exploration, assisting children to feel at ease as they learn and play.

At KLA Schools, families can trust that their child’s well-being is always our top priority:

  • Safe & secure spaces: Controlled entry systems, caring supervision, and child-centered design ensure peace of mind for parents, while providing children with the freedom to explore safely.
  • Healthy habits every day: Nutritious meals and snacks, daily movement, and outdoor play support growing bodies and bright minds.
  • Clean, thoughtful environments: Consistent cleaning and sanitizing routines keep classrooms fresh, organized, and ready for discovery.
  • Designed for comfort & curiosity: Natural light, calming colors, and open spaces create an atmosphere where children feel relaxed and inspired to learn.
  • Prepared & protected: Comprehensive safety plans and trained staff ensure that children are cared for in every situation.

Children feel safe to take risks, explore new ideas, and embrace each day with confidence and joy, because when children feel secure, their curiosity truly blooms.

Let’s Make the Transition to Kindergarten a Joyful One

Starting Transitional Kindergarten is a big and beautiful step in your child’s learning journey. Getting started is simple: schedule a tour, meet our nurturing teachers, and experience our joyful classrooms firsthand.

Contact us today to reserve your child’s place and provide them with a solid foundation for a confident and happy start to school.

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KLA Schools Transitional Kindergarten Program FAQs

What age group is Transitional Kindergarten designed for?

Our Transitional Kindergarten program is designed for children who are ready for more than preschool but not quite old enough, or developmentally ready for kindergarten. Typically, TK serves children who turn 5 between late summer and early winter, though readiness is always considered on an individual basis.

How is Transitional Kindergarten different from preschool or kindergarten?

TK bridges the gap between preschool and kindergarten. It offers a nurturing, play-based approach similar to that of preschool, while gently introducing early academic concepts in literacy, math, and critical thinking. With smaller class sizes and a focus on social-emotional growth, TK provides children with the time and confidence they need before entering a more structured kindergarten setting.

What does a typical day look like in the Transitional Kindergarten classroom?

Each day balances structure and freedom. Mornings include group time, hands-on learning, and play-based literacy or math exploration. Afternoons often feature art, music, science, and outdoor play. Reflection, collaboration, and social-emotional learning are woven throughout the day to help children build independence, empathy, and resilience.

What teaching approach is used in Transitional Kindergarten?

Our program is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which views children as capable, curious learners. Teachers observe and respond to children’s interests, creating projects and experiences that connect learning to the real world. Lessons are inquiry-driven, hands-on, and tailored to each child’s developmental stage.

How do smaller class sizes benefit TK students?

Low teacher-to-student ratios enable more personalized attention and foster stronger relationships. Teachers can closely observe each child’s growth, adapt lessons to their individual needs, and support emotional regulation, communication, and problem-solving in real time.

How does Transitional Kindergarten support social and emotional development?

Social-emotional growth is at the heart of our TK experience. Through group activities, problem-solving exercises, and daily reflection, children learn to understand their emotions, show empathy, and communicate with kindness. This foundation prepares them for the social expectations of kindergarten and beyond.

Do TK students spend time outdoors?

Absolutely! Outdoor play is a vital part of everyday life. Children run, climb, garden, and explore nature in safe, age-appropriate environments. Outdoor time strengthens coordination, teamwork, and curiosity while offering space to recharge and connect with the world around them.

How can families stay involved in the Transitional Kindergarten experience?

We believe families are partners in learning. Parents are invited to participate in classroom projects, special events, and ongoing communication with their child's teacher. Regular documentation and updates enable families to track their child’s progress and be an integral part of their growth journey.