The KIS Curriculum Does:

Reflect children's interests and child developmental standards
Encourage children to learn through play.
Maintain its excellence through an experienced and licensed staff.
Offer flexibility depending on the child's development.
Encourage self awareness, international awareness, and appreciation of other cultures.
Fill the day with fun activities such as cooking, arts and crafts, outdoor play, computers, gardening, and music.
Actively incorporate international events such as, but not limited to, Tanabata, Christmas, and other celebrations, as well as the ever-popular trick-or-treating costume party. We would also be more than happy to learn about any other cultural events that will aide in our appreciation of those who share our planet.
Prepare children for school readiness through a well developed English reading and math program based on developmental goals and standards.

The KIS Curriculum Does Not:

Offer a boring, watered down curriculum.
Focus on the children as all being the same.
Treat the child like they were in a daycare.
Offer a rigid school structure.

Introduction

Kid's International School uses a creative, standard-based curriculum in English that is adapted to meet the needs of each child's level of development. It is creative in the sense that themes and activities revolve around child interests. Our curriculum is standard-based in the sense that curriculum goals are developed in relation to the current research in early childhood development, as well as match the learning standards in countries such as England, Australia, Canada, and the United States of America-as well as Japan.

Language and Literacy

KIS uses a balanced English language and literacy program. The components that bind this program are English language classes, reading, dramatic play, vocabulary, discussion, whole language, phonemic awareness, phonological awareness, writing, spelling, and phonics. Each age-leveled class has different goals for the children regarding these components, and some of these components are not introduced till the later years at KIS due to individual development and age readiness. In all age groups language and literacy are not taught separately, but as a whole through daily activities-usually surrounding a theme. However, children are also taught English as a second language, or Japanese as a second language two days a week in specially designed classes. In addition, when children reach the five year old class, systematic explicit instruction in phonics using the reading program Primary Phonics, by Education Publishing Services, becomes a part of the curriculum. Our decision to incorporate phonics into our program is based on research in the field of reading and language development.

Mathematics

Math is incorporated in our children's day through themed activities and through a child's own play. Activities are based on Piaget's Theory that children, from toddlers until elementary school, learn best by using concrete objects (manipulatives). Classrooms for each age group are equipped with concrete materials which allow children to freely explore, and planned teacher activities which are designed to enhance the children's exploration. When the children enter the five year class they will begin a math program named Math Their Way, by Mary Baratta-Lorton. Math Their Way is an activity based math program. This program also follows Piaget's theory on learning as activities are designed to actively involve the child in mathematics and allow them to explore mathematical ideas and concepts.

Science

Science concepts are explored through classroom themes and child exploration. KIS feels science is an important part of a child's growth process because allows them to investigate, question, and predict the magical world around them.

Global Development (social studies)

An appreciation for the world around us begins with an appreciation of ones self. At KIS we attempt to logically build on the environments that surround the child and slowly introduce them to the larger world. Our hope is to guide a child to appreciate the world around them (physical and natural) and the likenesses and differences that exist.

Social and Emotional Development

The areas of social and emotional development occur simultaneously with self-awareness through daily interaction with ones environment. This development is the cornerstone for school readiness of the later years because it develops skills like being a good listener and being a good friend. KIS offers children practice and guidance in these areas by inviting children to simply play, and by being surrounded by teachers who are nurturing role models.

Physical Development

A child physically develops in specific stages. For example, first a child crawls, then they stand, then they walk. At KIS we place emphasis a child's physical development. We are not only are aware of what stage each individual child is at in their development, but also give the child freedom to move and explore the limits of their large and small muscle movements in a safe and natural environment. KIS places great emphasis on outside play and self-help skills such as taking care of ones body and belongings. In addition, we have a wonderful playground and garden, and often take advantage of the four surrounding parks-all of which are in walking distance from the school. Also, KIS is located in a rural area which gives the children an opportunity to go for a nice afternoon walk with their class.

Music

Everyday children enjoy singing and moving to music. In addition, a weekly music class provides opportunities for expression through music and for specific learning goals to be accomplished. Children explore music through musical instruments, body movements, and actions (such as rhythmic clapping). To add more excitement to music, we have a special once-a-month class held by Mrs. Oka. She does outstanding work with the children providing them with special musical experiences where music and imagination combine through child involvement and literature.

Art

Children explore art through daily play and teacher guided activities. They are always encouraged to make their own creations and participate in guided activities involving new art concepts that will allow them to enhance their play. Children are always welcome to freely explore with many art tools (paper clay, paints, paper mache, origami, weaving, etc.). Art is a great way to connect all curriculum areas.

Cooking

Equipped with a full kitchen, the children are able to experience the joy of creating their own food. Cooking is a perfect way to connect other curriculum areas such as literature, art, math, and science.

Technology

Three classrooms are equipped with computers. The programs our children use not only aid in language development, but also develop fine motor skills.