Key Points

Abbey Jennings, NHA's Curriculum Specialist, highlights how their kindergarten program builds essential early math and literacy skills while nurturing social growth--setting students up to thrive well beyond these first school days.

Building a Strong Academic Foundation

At NHA, kindergarten is about mastering the basics that matter: counting, number recognition, addition, subtraction, and early reading skills. Jennings explains, "These fundamental skills help kids enter higher grades confidently, without struggling to catch up."

Instead of falling behind, NHA students develop a strong base that supports continuous learning and academic progress.

Social Skills That Stick

Kindergarten isn't just about academics. For many kids, it's their first time away from parents in a group setting. Here, they learn how to follow directions, share, resolve conflicts, and build friendships.

Jennings notes, "The stakes are low when kids learn to share crayons or take turns, but those early experiences prepare them for bigger challenges later on." This safe environment helps children grow socially and emotionally.

Hands-On Learning That Excites

NHA's approach is all about engaging students actively. From day one, teachers encourage kids to explore problems and create their own solutions.

"When children use their own words to explain their thinking," Jennings says, "they own their learning." This hands-on style keeps kids excited and involved in school.

Character Counts: Teaching Values Early

Beyond academics and social skills, NHA kindergartners benefit from the Moral Focus curriculum. Each month focuses on a new character virtue--like respect, integrity, or compassion.

"By month's end, students don't just know these words; they can use them in sentences and apply them in real life," Jennings shares. This builds strong character alongside strong minds.

Parents Are Key Partners

Parents play a big role in helping kindergartners succeed. Simple actions like talking about the school day or reading together can boost learning.

Jennings advises parents to prepare kids for school routines over the summer--like putting on sweaters independently or practicing asking and answering questions. Driving to the school beforehand and practicing drop-off and pick-up routines also helps ease first-day jitters.

Kindergarten: More Than a First Step

With thoughtful teaching and family support, kindergarten at NHA isn't just the start of school--it's a launchpad for lifelong success. From academics to character development, these early years shape confident, capable learners ready for whatever comes next.

- PRN