Pre-School Curriculum
Fun and Focused
At St. Matthew Christian Nursery School, our curriculum is thoughtfully designed around the Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards (2022), developed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). These standards support the development of the whole child—intellectually, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Learning is centered on meaningful, hands-on experiences and discovery, all within a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
Approaches to Learning Through Play
Children explore and grow through active, play-based learning. Our curriculum encourages:
- Constructing, organizing, and applying knowledge
- Learning through hands-on experiences
- Taking risks and developing creativity
- Making connections and solving problems
These experiences promote critical thinking, resilience, and a love for learning.
Language and Literacy Development
We foster language growth and early literacy skills through:
- English Language Arts and foundational reading skills
- Reading informational texts and literature
- Writing, speaking, and listening
- Comprehension, prediction, and recall development
Children are immersed in stories, conversations, and activities that expand vocabulary and understanding.
Mathematical Thinking and Expression
Mathematical concepts are introduced through playful, practical exploration:
- Numbers and operations
- Patterns and algebraic thinking
- Geometry and measurement
- Data collection and probability
Children learn to think logically, recognize patterns, and solve everyday problems.
Scientific Thinking and Technology
We nurture natural curiosity by encouraging exploration and observation:
- Scientific inquiry and discovery
- Living and non-living things
- Basic concepts of physics, chemistry, and Earth science
- Awareness of ecology, natural resources, and human impact
Technology is introduced in age-appropriate ways to support investigation and creativity.
Social Studies Thinking
Through interactive play and discussions, children learn about the world around them:
- Roles and responsibilities in community life
- Basic concepts of civics and government
- Early geography, economics, and history
- Celebrating diversity and understanding others
Children begin to understand how people live, work, and relate to one another.
Creative Thinking and Expression
Imagination and creativity are essential to early development. Our program offers opportunities to:
- Express ideas through music and movement
- Engage in dramatic and performance play
- Explore visual arts and creative materials
Children build confidence, coordination, and emotional expression through the arts.
Health, Wellness, and Physical Development
We support healthy habits and physical development by focusing on:
- Learning about the body and how to stay healthy
- Practicing safety and injury prevention
- Gross motor skill development through active play
- Fine motor skills developed through hands-on tasks
Indoor and outdoor activities promote strength, coordination, and well-being.
Social and Emotional Development
A strong foundation in emotional intelligence helps children thrive. We guide them in:
- Understanding and managing emotions
- Building friendships and social awareness
- Practicing empathy, cooperation, and problem-solving
- Making responsible choices
Children learn to express themselves appropriately and build positive relationships.
Everyday Learning Through Play
Children engage in joyful, purposeful learning through everyday activities such as:
- Playing with toys and learning materials
- Creating art
- Imitating and pretending
- Enjoying stories and books
- Exploring sand, water, music, and movement
- Preparing and tasting food
Play is the foundation of all learning—helping children make sense of the world around them.
Christian Curriculum
As part of our faith-based approach, children at St. Matthew Christian Nursery School learn the foundational truths of the Christian faith through:
- Daily prayer and Bible stories
- Bible-based activities
- Learning about Jesus’ love and God’s creation
Our teachings align with St. Matthew Lutheran Church’s Statement of Faith, helping children grow in faith as they grow in knowledge and character