Pre-Kindergarten builds children’s strengths and skills through play in a language-rich environment. The program is for children with high support needs who are between:
2 years and 8 months old, and
4 years and 8 months old
Children must be in this age range by September 1 of the year they are attending.
Support children to express themselves, share and solve problems
Develop communication and motor skills through play and guided activities
Build confidence and form positive connections with peers in a welcoming space
Explore new experiences and grow a love for learning
Respect each child’s individual way of interacting
BENEFITS
Regular access to specialized support, such as:
speech and language pathology
occupational therapy
physical therapy
Develop skills and strategies that support each child’s learning, growth and participation
Create opportunities for children to connect, play and engage with others
Offer spaces to celebrate and learn from each child’s unique strengths and diversity
Build a strong partnership between the family and school
Begin your child’s education with Edmonton Public Schools, where they can build comfort and confidence in the classroom and experience a smooth, supportive transition into Kindergarten
PROGRAM DELIVERY
Half-day classes
One certified teacher and two educational assistants in every class
Playful and engaging learning environment
Learning experiences that match each child’s strengths, interests, curiosity and choices
ELIGIBILITY
Pre-Kindergarten is for children with severe needs based on Alberta Education and Childcare criteria. To be eligible for Pre-Kindergarten, children must meet the following criteria:
be between the ages of 2 years and 8 months and 4 years and 8 months old by September 1 of the year they are attending
have a severe language delay or another diagnosis from a health care provider that requires high support
have a recommendation from Alberta Health Services to contact an early childhood services provider
have a parent/guardian with concerns about the amount of language they use or understand (in their strongest language)
If you believe your child meets these requirements, please contact a school offering Pre-Kindergarten or complete one of the expression of interest forms based on where you live:
Starting in February, schools will contact families who completed the expression of interest form to collect more information. If necessary, schools will arrange for a speech language pathologist to assess your child's language skills. Assessments begin in March each school year.
REGISTRATION FOR PRE-KINDERGARTEN
To register for Pre-Kindergarten, please contact a school that offers Pre-Kindergarten to confirm that your child meets the eligibility criteria.
TRANSPORTATION
Children registered in a Pre-Kindergarten program may be eligible for busing depending on their location. Contact a school offering Pre-Kindergarten to discuss eligibility and busing options.
