Primary Years
(K and 1)
Overview
Nurturing Individuality
In Balsam’s Early Years Program, we nurture each child’s individuality, recognizing them as curious and capable. This empowers a positive transition from home-life to school-life.
The Reggio Emilia Approach
We embrace the Reggio Emilia approach, where children are seen as capable individuals with rights. From kindergarten, we introduce rights-based language so children learn to consider how their actions and choices affect themselves and those around them.
Community Connection
Children connect to their community through visits to museums and local businesses. They appreciate and care for our environment during outdoor days at Mission Creek Park and Rotary Marsh. Daily mindfulness practice teaches the importance of stillness and reflection.
Academic Foundation
Research-Based Curricula
We build the foundation for academic success using research-based curriculums:
- Jolly Phonics and Heggerty: Equip students with skills to become confident readers and writers.
- Singapore Math: Our students become mathematical thinkers through a blend of curriculum-based learning and hands-on experiences in nature and our community.
- Little Spot Program: Teaches children to identify emotions and strategies to manage them.
Inquiry-Based Learning
We teach and learn through an inquiry approach. Nurturing curiosity, questioning and research skills across the curriculum, and supporting students to put their learning into action.
Social and Emotional Development
Holistic Growth
We ask our youngest students to stretch themselves socially, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Caring adults and a low student-to-staff ratio support students in meeting these high demands.
Building Confidence and Resilience
Our students leave the Balsam Early Years Program with a sense of confidence and resilience that they carry into the next phase of their educational journey.
The School Day
The school day for our early years students is a blend of structured learning, outdoor activities, community visits, and mindfulness practices. To learn more about our daily routines, see our Core Routines.
Benefits of Primary Years at Balsam
- Individuality recognition and empowerment
- Rights-based learning
- Community engagement
- Environmental appreciation
- Mindfulness practice
- Strong foundation in reading, writing, and math
- Emotional intelligence development
- Inquiry-based learning
- Holistic growth supported by caring adults
only learn behind a desk when 
you can
learn 
outside?