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Our Programs

Each classroom maintains a small student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for a more individualized and tailored learning experience. By the time our students graduate from preschool, they are thoroughly prepared and equipped to seamlessly transition into Kindergarten.
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Preppers (Toddler Daycare)

 

Our most popular program, the Preppers Class, is where young learners begin their early education journey in a warm, engaging, and structured environment that fosters both independence and a love of learning. Designed for children ages 2½ and up, this program helps toddlers transition smoothly into school-day routines while exploring the world through play, discovery, and hands-on experiences.

 

At Little Earth Shepherds Preschool, we provide a strong academic foundation by blending the NAEYC-accredited curriculum with elements of the East Brunswick School District’s learning standards, ensuring our students develop key skills needed for kindergarten readiness. Our teachers create a nurturing, dynamic learning environment where toddlers build spatial and social awareness, strengthen gross motor skills, and develop emotional intelligence through both small and large group activities.

 

We also introduce STEM education at an early age, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking through interactive sensory play, simple science experiments, and foundational math concepts. Through engaging hands-on activities, children begin to explore cause-and-effect relationships, number sense, and basic problem-solving skills.

 

Additionally, we embrace a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to art, allowing toddlers to express themselves through creative exploration, open-ended artistic projects, and sensory-based learning. This encourages self-awareness, confidence, and imaginative thinking as they begin to discover their unique identities.

 

Our Preppers Class is more than just a daycare—it’s a thoughtfully designed first step in your child’s educational journey, where learning, play, and discovery come together to build a strong foundation for lifelong success!

Pre-K 3

 

In our Pre-K 3 class, children aged 3 years old embark on an exciting journey where they begin to solidify routines and delve into the foundation of social-emotional learning. Our dedicated teachers focus on fostering strong socialization skills, helping students develop meaningful relationships with peers while nurturing their growing independence through daily routines and guided activities.

 

We emphasize the importance of self-awareness, guiding children to understand both their emotions and those of others in group settings. Our Pre-K 3 program is designed to prepare children for the next step in their education, integrating age-appropriate strategies that focus on key developmental milestones such as language skills, fine and gross motor development, letter recognition, number sense, and sequencing.

 

As part of our dynamic curriculum, we build on critical thinking through storytelling, sequencing, and hands-on activities that stimulate the imagination. With STEM exploration, children begin experimenting with basic math and science concepts, all within a safe, supportive environment that promotes confidence and curiosity.

 

Our approach also incorporates Reggio Emilia-inspired art, encouraging children to express their thoughts and emotions through creative projects that strengthen their sense of self-expression. By nurturing each child’s individual strengths and building upon their sense of identity, we lay the groundwork for a smooth transition into Pre-K 4 and beyond.

 

The Pre-K 3 class at Little Earth Shepherds is where your child will thrive, gaining the tools and confidence needed to grow, explore, and develop into a lifelong learner.

Pre-K 4: Kindergarten Prep
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Our Pre-K 4 program is thoughtfully designed to provide the ideal foundation for kindergarten success, ensuring that children are not only academically prepared but also socially and emotionally confident as they take their next big step.

 

At Little Earth Shepherds, we implement a comprehensive, research-based curriculum that integrates the NAEYC-accredited framework, STEM education, and a Reggio Emilia-inspired art approach. Additionally, we align our instruction with the East Brunswick Public School curriculum to ensure that our students transition smoothly into kindergarten with a strong grasp of the essential skills and concepts they will continue to build upon.

 

In Pre-K 4, children engage in:

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Early literacy development through phonological awareness, letter recognition, and storytelling

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  •  Mathematical foundations with number sense, sequencing, and basic computation

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  •  STEM exploration through hands-on experiments, problem-solving activities, and critical thinking challenges

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  •  Fine and gross motor skill development, including early writing skills and classroom readiness tasks

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  •  Reggio Emilia-inspired art, encouraging creativity, self-expression, and deeper learning connections

 

Through a play-based yet structured approach, our experienced educators cultivate a love for learning, independence, and self-confidence in every child. By the time they leave Little Earth Shepherds, our students are not just ready for kindergarten—they are excited, prepared, and eager to thrive in their academic journey!

Extended Care for Busy Families

At Little Earth Shepherds, we recognize the importance of flexible, high-quality care for working families. Our before and aftercare programs are thoughtfully designed to provide a safe, engaging, and enriching environment while seamlessly integrating into your monthly tuition. With a curriculum inspired by NAYCE standards and STEM-based learning, we ensure that every moment—whether before or after the school day—is a valuable opportunity for growth, creativity, and exploration.

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Before Care | 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM

A smooth and structured start to the day, our Before Care program helps children transition into their school routine with engaging, low-energy activities that encourage focus and creativity.

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  • Quiet reading & storytelling

  • Creative expression through drawing & coloring

  • Educational games and hands-on STEM activities

  • Puzzles, logic games, and problem-solving challenges

Children are welcome to bring and enjoy breakfast between 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM to start their day with energy and focus.

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Aftercare | 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Our Aftercare program blends structured enrichment with play-based learning, offering a diverse range of activities that promote social, cognitive, and physical development.

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  • STEM-based activities (simple experiments, building challenges, coding games)

  • Creative arts & hands-on crafts

  • Music, movement, and storytelling

  • Outdoor & indoor gross motor play

  • Organized group games promoting teamwork and problem-solving

  • Daily snack provided (Families may also send their own if preferred.)

  • Flexible free-play opportunities to encourage imagination and social engagement

Our extended care programs provide a well-rounded experience where children can learn, play, and thrive in a nurturing and structured setting—ensuring they end each day feeling enriched, supported, and excited for what’s next!

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