MHCS Early Learning Programs
Early years programming in Medicine Hat Public School Division is child centered and is reflective of the Guiding Principles set out by Alberta Education. Optimal Learning Environments combined with early Intervention builds solid brain architecture. Children learn through Play. We build, pretend, get messy, move and explore together - inspiring curiosity.
We offer a variety of programs and settings providing early learning support for children who are 5 years of age by December 31. Programs offer language-rich play-based environments; a multi-disciplinary team of professionals work together to provide programming designed to enhance language, social, physical, intellectual, creative, cultural and emotional development. Educators provide rich and varied opportunities that recognize children learn and develop at different rates and in different ways.
Parent & Child Engagement
Parents are the child’s first and most important teacher! As part of our Early Years programming, we offer parent and child engagement sessions throughout the school year. In the sessions you will learn how to engage your child in play to support their overall development. Watch for posters and Edsby notifications for more details about available sessions, once enrolled with MHPSD.
Learn more about each program
Kindergarten
Children must be five years old by December 31 to register for kindergarten programming. Kindergarten is a part time program and will be offered in either the am or pm.
**Please note: MHCS does not offer the Play & Learn program. See information below about KidsPlay Preschool as an option for full time programming.
Kindergarten builds on the experiences that children have engaged in at home, in childcare environments and the community. Children learn and develop at their own rate in play centered environments with intentional teaching to develop a solid foundation for learning.
Kindergarten programming is based on the Guiding Principles outlined by Alberta Education:
- Childhoods differ depending on social and cultural circumstances.
- Children’s development is influenced but not determined by their early experiences.
- Children interact and learn in a variety of contexts.
- Children are co-constructors of knowledge and partners in learning.
- Children are unique and active contributors to their learning.
- Children construct and represent knowledge in a variety of ways.
- Children are citizens and active participants in school and society.
- Children are active collaborators in and users of assessment.
Kindergarten programs are organized around learner expectations in the following areas:
- English Language Arts & Literature
- Mathematics
- Science
- Physical Education & Wellness
- Citizenship and Identity
- Environment and Community Awareness
- Personal and Social Responsibility
- Creative Expression.
For more information visit Alberta Education for the Kindergarten Program Statement
New Kindergarten curriculum for subjects that have been implemented can be found on learnalberta.ca
Helpful Links: APPLY HERE
KidsPlay Preschool
KidsPlay Preschool is an independent preschool that operates within Medicine Hat Christian School.
**Please note: MHCS does not offer the Play & Learn program. See information below about KidsPlay Preschool as an option for full time programming.
Contact KidsPlay Preschool for more information regarding their program.