Marin Formative Christian Preschool

Curriculum is theme-based. Independent, open-ended activities, along with teacher-directed projects and games incorporate the philosophies of many leading early childhood educators to create a well-balanced, age-appropriate play and academic environment.

Children have the opportunity to work independently and in small groups, as well as participate in large group circle times and games. Time and space are allowed for children to experiment, create, problem-solve and help care for their environment.

Enrichment opportunities are available for Koalas and Pre-K during the week. Currently, we offer Creative Movement and Dance, the Gymnastics Bus, Amazing Athletes and Happy Feet Soccer. Registration and payment is handled by each provider. MFCP seeks to introduce children to a loving God through daily devotions, expressions of thanksgiving, prayer and hearing stories of God’s ongoing relationship with us through the life, work, and stories of His Son, Jesus. Bible Stories told in the style of Godly Play are presented and “wondered about” in each classroom twice a week. Simple and fun songs reinforce Bible stories.

The TEDDY classroom, for children who are 2 years old by September 1 of the current school year, consists of twelve children per day with three teachers. The children enjoy plenty of outdoor play as well as a variety of activity centers such as blocks, dramatic play, books and puzzles and many tactile experiences with paints, play dough, water, shaving cream etc. They begin to learn self-help skills and how to care for themselves and each other.

The KOALA classroom, for children who are 3 years old by September of the current school year, consists of 20 children per day with 4 teachers. Children have the opportunity for creative, imaginary play and the developing of friendships. They further develop fine and large motor abilities, listening and communication skills, independence and the ability to care for themselves, their belongings and school materials.

The PRE-K class, for children who are 4 years old by September 1 of the current school year, consists of up to 24 children, 3 teachers and 2 to 3 teacher aides. The Pre-K curriculum is designed to prepare children to make a smooth and successful transition to Kindergarten. Children’s play becomes more complicated with increasing collaborative play and opportunities for problem-solving. “Handwriting Without Tears” introduces children to the shapes and sounds of letters. Math concepts, numbers and science experiments are woven throughout the program.

SECOND STEP Social-Emotional curriculum, adapted to be appropriate for each classroom, is designed to help children learn executive function and self-regulation skills. Using puppets, games and stories children are taught to recognize and name their own emotions and those of others, how to ask for a turn, request help, and join groups of friends.

Students participate in a variety of activities including tactile sensory play, cooking, gardening, science experiments and nature observations, finger painting, arts and crafts, and Bible stories. To prepare for kindergarten, the program focuses on social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual development.

Marin Formative is fortunate to have a staff with diverse cultural backgrounds and experience in early childhood settings. While we are excited to be a school where new teachers gain experience in the field of early childhood education, some of our teachers have more than 15 years of experience and have been on the staff of Marin Formative for more than 5 years. In addition to English, languages spoken by our teachers include French, Hindi, Portuguese, Spanish and Urdu.