Prairie Hill's early childhood curriculum is based on the understanding that early-childhood experiences are a critically important part of the development of each individual child. We build a solid foundation for future academic work by protecting and nurturing the child's natural creativity. In all ways, the teacher works to create a harmonious environment that is worthy of the child's imitation.

Classroom and outdoor activities are carefully designed to encourage language development, enhance memory and comprehension, and nourish imagination—all prerequisites for creative thinking and academic achievement.

Early-childhood teaching at Prairie Hill is oral, dramatic, and creative through stories, songs, rhymes, puppetry, movement, water color painting, experiencing nature, creative play, and practical activities such as sewing, hammering, sawing, sweeping, gardening, and grinding grain that the children then bake into bread. These activities develop the child’s connection to the rhythms of their bodies, to life in their families and their communities, and to the natural environment.

When the children enter the Wonder Garden and Kindergarten, they are greeted with respect and led into beautiful, warm, home-like classrooms that nurture growth, inspire imaginations, and develop a love of learning.

Morning Glory Playgroup (18 months - 3 1/2 year-olds)
Playgroup begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 11:00 a.m.
A child and parent come one day a week. Classes meet Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Wonder Garden (2 3/4 - 4 year-olds)
Classes begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 12:15 p.m.
Families may choose the 2-day, 3-day or 5-day Wonder Garden program.

Kindergarten (3 1/2 - 6 year-olds)
Classes begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 12:15 p.m.
Families may choose the 2-day, 3-day or 5-day Kindergarten program.

Extended Care
Extended-care programs are available for Wonder Garden and Kindergarten students from 12:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.