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Curriculum

                                                  Tools of the Mind Preschool Curriculum 

Our preschool program uses Tools of the Mind, a research-based, play-centered curriculum designed to prepare children for success in kindergarten and beyond. Through purposeful play and engaging, hands-on learning experiences, children develop early literacy, math, science, and language skills while building confidence, creativity, and independence.

A key focus of the curriculum is helping children develop self-regulation, the ability to focus, follow directions, solve problems, and work cooperatively with others. Teachers guide learning through intentional play, small-group activities, and meaningful interactions that encourage curiosity and a love of learning.

At South River Preschool, we believe children learn best when they are actively engaged, supported, and inspired to explore the world around them.

Benefits

Research has found that children in Tools classrooms often demonstrate improvements in:

  • Self-regulation
  • Executive functioning
  • Classroom behavior
  • Cooperation
  • Early literacy
  • Language development
  • Mathematics readiness

Some studies report positive effects, particularly for self-regulation and children in high-poverty settings, while reviews of the evidence find mixed or modest effects on some academic outcomes. Overall, the curriculum has one of the stronger research bases among play-based early childhood programs.

Video: https://www.toolsofthemind.org/preschool-for-families

Tools of the Mind and Promoting Self-Regualtion: 1-19-26-spotlight-on-the-science-of-self-regulation.pdf