Traditional Kindergarten

A Strong Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Traditional Kindergarten at Our Lady of Grace is a joyful and comprehensive program designed for children who meet Connecticut’s age requirement (5 years old on or before September 1). It provides the full Kindergarten curriculum in a loving, faith-filled environment, preparing students to move directly into first grade with confidence, readiness, and joy.

Our Kindergarten classrooms are vibrant spaces where faith and academics meet, guided daily by the Sisters and teachers who know each child personally. Parents consistently remark that the Sisters’ presence sets Our Lady of Grace apart — turning a milestone year of education into a life-shaping experience of love, trust, and belonging.

What Children Experience in Traditional Kindergarten

📖 Literacy & Language
Children advance in reading, writing, and communication skills through phonics, storytelling, journaling, and small-group instruction. They build confidence as readers and writers, learning to express themselves with clarity and creativity.

➕ Mathematics
Our math curriculum emphasizes critical thinking through number sense, patterns, measurement, problem-solving, and early operations. Children apply concepts in hands-on ways, making math both engaging and practical.

🔬 Science & Social Studies
Through projects, experiments, and discussions, students explore the world around them — from nature and the environment to communities and history. Science and social studies come alive through discovery, collaboration, and connection to daily life.

🎶 Arts & Expression
Music, singing, drama, storytelling, and visual arts give children the freedom to explore creativity, build confidence, and share their talents with others.

🌎 Languages
Exposure to Italian and Spanish introduces children to new cultures and vocabulary, fostering appreciation for diversity and broadening their horizons.

🙏 Faith & Virtue Formation
Daily prayer, chapel visits, and age-appropriate lessons in faith and virtue help children grow spiritually. They learn how to live their Catholic faith joyfully and naturally, discovering that God is present in every part of their lives.

🤝 Social & Emotional Development
Group projects, classroom responsibilities, and leadership opportunities encourage independence, teamwork, and empathy. Children learn to make good choices, care for others, and grow as kind and respectful classmates.

🏃 Physical Development & Play
Daily movement, outdoor play, and structured gym activities build coordination, stamina, and healthy habits — while also giving children time to enjoy the fun of being five.

Ready for First Grade and Beyond

Traditional Kindergarten is the culmination of the preschool journey and the gateway to elementary school. By the end of the year, children are academically prepared, socially confident, and spiritually rooted. They are eager to continue their education, carrying with them the habits of kindness, curiosity, and faith that have been lovingly instilled at Our Lady of Grace.

At Our Lady of Grace, Kindergarten is not just a grade — it is a celebration of growth, a year of transformation, and a joyful foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Please click here to visit Kindergarten Pathways for a side-by-side comparison between Traditional Kindergarten and Transitional Kindergarten/Pre-K5