Preschool Program
W
hen toddlers grow into preschoolers, the time when they begin school seems to come quickly.
It can be overwhelming to think of all the skills children need to be successful in public school. Kountry Kids can help children
master the skills they will need during their school years. Coordinated with the kindgergarten classes in Las Animas
Elementary School and the other preschool classes in Las Animas, Kountry Kids offers pre-kindergarten education for those children
preparing for kindergarten. Skills include letter and number mastery, name recognition and writing, basic math skills, lots of exposure
to quality literature, social skills, large motor development, and small motor practice. Children who graduate from this program easily transition into
the public school classroom.
Ages Appropriate
Ages: Typically children who will be entering kindergarten the following year. However, some 3-4 year olds are considered.
Intergenerational Program
At Kountry Kids and the Bent County HealthCare Center, activities are regularly planned or spontaneously occur between elders and children. These activities have included gardening, reading, crafts, exercise, parties, movies, field trips, and many more. Children learn to accept those with disabilities (wheelchairs, oxygen, amputations) and love the elders like grandmas and grandpas. The elders love the children's energy.Services
- State licensed childcare organization
- Daily contact with "grandmas & grandpas" (nursing home elders)
- Nutritious meals and snacks are served
- Field trips and special activities are planned
- Special needs and BOCES services are available
- Bus runs available for CDS lunch periods and after school pickup at Las Animas Elementary School
- Developmentally appropriate curriculums are adapted for each child
- Rest periods are encouraged
- Health screenings are available throughout the year
- "Buggy Runs" throughout the home and outside, weather permitting.