William Gates, Sr. (2007) said, “The first five years have so much to do with how the next 80 turn out.” These early years are the fastest period of brain development in a child’s life. From birth, children are eager and ready to learn. Studies show that early brain development is strongly influenced by a child’s environment and experiences. The foundation for healthy brain development is built through positive relationships with adults and other children, along with quality learning experiences and interactions (NCEDCTL, n.d.).
We believe that for children to learn effectively, they need a warm, supportive, and safe space filled with love, empathy, understanding, fun, and creativity.
Our goals for the children in Hillside’s preschool programs are to help them gain the skills and knowledge needed for each stage of their lives. To achieve this, we plan theme-based, hands-on activities that help each child grow cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically. These activities help children think through problems, try out solutions, and keep going when tasks are challenging. Our teaching methods include sensory table play, storytime, singing songs, experiments, observations, and free access to art supplies. We provide open-ended experiences where children can explore, ask questions, and investigate the world around them.
We believe in the power of teamwork and community. When we work together, big or small, great things are possible. We also believe that even the youngest children can make a difference in the world. In our classrooms, we model and promote teamwork by offering help and encouraging children to ask for help from trusted adults and their peers. In the community, we work together on service projects to benefit individuals or local non-profits. These activities help us understand our roles in our environment and the world. Participating in these activities can also improve mental functioning and overall health, which is beneficial at any age (EarlyEdU Alliance, 2015).
By understanding how children grow and develop, partnering with families, and providing meaningful experiences, we aim to create a dynamic learning community. We want to inspire future innovators and leaders who are confident, passionate, and love learning.
Preschool Program:
3 years old by 8/31 | Part-Time
Monday/Wednesday/Friday 9:00AM-12:00PM
Tuesday/Thursday 9:00AM-12:00PM
PreK Program:
4 years old by 8/31 | Part-Time
Monday-Thursday:
Morning Class 9:30AM-12:00PM
Afternoon Class 1:00PM-3:30PM
Registration Forms
- Certificate of Immunization
- Link to access your student’s WA Vaccination Record
- Certificate of Exemption
Parent Information
Supply Lists
Hillside Spirit Gear
As a kindergarten teacher, I can clearly see how better prepared the students from Hillside’s preK are compared to students from other preschools. Hillside’s preschool programs offer a balance of play and age-appropriate curriculum that encourages students to use their natural curiosity and imagination to develop confidence in their physical, social, and academic abilities, as well as to cultivate a love of learning. This whole-child approach gives Hillside’s preschool students the foundation needed to be successful in not just their kindergarten year, but for their entire life-long educational journey.
Mr. M (Kindergarten teacher at Hillside since 2011)
Thank you so much for an amazing kindergarten and preschool experience. She truly looked forward to each day and loved going to school at Hillside. We originally went into this year thinking it would be a bridge to public school, but we had no idea we would fall in love with the school! The individualized attention she receives here is far superior to other schools. The great care you all take for the students is noticed and appreciated.
Parent of Alumni Student
