Petite Section (PS)
(Pre Kindergarten-3)
3+ years old
The Petite Section program introduces more structured activities that support early literacy and pre-writing development. Children begin building phonological and phonemic awareness while developing alphabet recognition and early letter identification skills. Pre-writing activities and introductory calligraphy help students practice writing their first name while strengthening fine motor coordination.
The curriculum also includes creative arts projects and an introduction to music through songs, instruments, and listening to musical pieces. Students may attend two, three, or five days per week from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with optional aftercare and lunch programs available. Class size ranges from 13 to 16 students with a student-to-teacher ratio of 1:7 to 1:8.
The Petite Section class in Washington, D,C, is designed for children aged three, providing a nurturing and structured environment where curiosity, creativity, and early learning flourish. At this stage, children begin developing foundational academic, social, and motor skills through engaging activities that balance guided learning with playful exploration.
Early Literacy Development
Our curriculum introduces children to the fundamentals of pre-reading and pre-writing. Through fun, interactive activities, students develop phonological and phonemic awareness, helping them recognize and play with the sounds in language. Children also begin building alphabetic knowledge, including letter identification and sound recognition.
Pre-writing skills are gently introduced through calligraphy and tracing exercises, helping children gain control over fine motor movements. One of the first exciting milestones for many students is learning to write their own first name, fostering confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
Creative Expression
Creativity plays an essential role in the Petite Section experience. Students participate in a wide range of arts and crafts projects that encourage imagination while strengthening fine motor skills. Through painting, drawing, cutting, and assembling, children explore colors, textures, and shapes while expressing their ideas.
Music and Discovery
Children are also introduced to the world of music and sound. Through playful exploration of instruments, singing songs, and listening to musical masterpieces, students develop listening skills, rhythm, and an appreciation for music. These activities also support language development and group participation.
Social and Emotional Growth
In addition to academic foundations, the Petite Section program supports children’s social and emotional development. Daily classroom routines help children learn how to work together, follow instructions, share materials, and build friendships. Teachers guide students in developing independence, confidence, and respect for others.
Schedule and Class Structure
Students may attend five days per week, with classes running from 8:50 AM to 2:45 PM. Families may also choose optional aftercare and club programs. To ensure personalized attention and meaningful interaction, each class maintains a small group size of 10–12 students, with a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:6 and one teacher and one assistant per class. Drop-off starts at 8:30 AM.
A Joyful Start to Learning
The Petite Section offers children a joyful introduction to school life, where they feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Through a thoughtful balance of structure, creativity, and exploration, students develop the confidence and foundational skills that prepare them for the next stage of their educational journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
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