Prefirst

Prefirst refers to a transitional educational program designed for children who are not yet ready for traditional kindergarten. These programs, also known as pre-kindergarten, junior kindergarten, or transitional kindergarten depending on the region, aim to bridge the gap between preschool and the more structured academic environment of kindergarten. The focus of prefirst is typically on developing foundational skills such as social-emotional learning, early literacy, basic numeracy, and fine and gross motor skills. It provides an additional year of guided learning and play for children who may have later birthdays or who have been identified as needing more time to develop the readiness skills typically expected for kindergarten entry. The curriculum is often play-based, allowing children to learn through exploration and interaction, while also introducing early academic concepts in a gentle and age-appropriate manner. The ultimate goal of prefirst is to ensure that children enter kindergarten with a stronger foundation, increasing their chances of academic success and positive school adjustment. Admission criteria can vary, with some programs being selective based on developmental assessments, while others are more broadly available.