Kindergarten

Holistic, Hands-On, and High-Achieving

At InnovOak School, our distinctive Kindergarten program is thoughtfully designed to maximize early learning potential. Integrating Montessori methods, direct and explicit instruction in language and math, and a comprehensive introduction to STEM, French, the arts, and purposeful play, InnovOak provides a dynamic learning environment prioritizing both academic excellence and developmental growth.

Drawing from over 30 years of educational expertise, our hybrid model blends traditional best practices with the latest brain-based research and innovative teaching methods. We understand the importance of early mastery in reading, writing, and math and have crafted classrooms that are stimulating and structured, ensuring that foundational skills are engagingly and effectively built.

After a comprehensive review of available Kindergarten models, we created a unique approach that incorporates elements of Full-Day Kindergarten (FDK), Montessori, and InnovOak’s own methodologies. Our program offers a high standard of early education, carefully designed to foster academic and personal growth in each child.

Program Highlights

Exceeds Ontario Standards

Our Kindergarten program ensures students meet or exceed Grade 1 expectations by the end of SK.

Dual Approach to Learning

Balancing inquiry-based exploration with structured learning promotes both academic achievement and developmental growth.

Life Skills and Practical Knowledge

Through our LifeREADY program, students develop practical skills that support personal and academic success.

Innovative “Speaking Math”

Our approach emphasizes early fluency in math by teaching key vocabulary and concepts, empowering students to discuss and understand math confidently.

Broad Exposure to Diverse Topics

Early STEM integration, exposure to the arts, French language learning, and real-world applications inspire curiosity and expand students’ worldviews.

Kindergarten Is More Than Play

  • We don’t wait for students to choose what, when, or how to learn. We continually introduce students to new concepts to broaden and deepen their understanding of the world around them

  • Literacy and Math are explicitly taught to build a solid foundation

  • Teachers differentiate instruction and give every child the individual attention they deserve

  • Learning is structured and continuous throughout the day

  • Skillful teachers turn student curiosity into focused inquiry and exploration with real-world connections

Confidence in Reading & Writing

  • Solidly rooted in the Science of Reading, InnovOak uses Heggerty and UFLI to teach phonics, phonemic awareness, and orthographic mapping

  • Fine motor skill development, proper letter formation and daily printing practice prepare students to be writers

  • Foundational skills, explicit instruction and daily practice accelerate the learning process and build student confidence

  • By the end of kindergarten, InnovOak students will be readers and writers

We SPEAK MATH

  • Math is a language all its own, requiring explicit instruction and daily practice to form a solid understanding

  • Our foundational approach teaches concepts and skills using tools designed to help students understand abstract concepts by manipulating concrete tools

  • Engaging Math activities are designed to build student confidence at an early age and prevent mathematical anxiety in later years

  • We build the foundation for successful, long-term, mathematical achievement

Accountability & Nurturing Excellence

  • Parents can expect to see measurable success even in Kindergarten

  • We engage in regular and transparent communication between home and school

  • Our teachers are approachable and knowledgeable about your child’s current level of learning and next steps

  • Kindergarten is the beginning of a journey that culminates with an InnovOak Upper School Graduation. We maintain high expectations and an academic focus throughout the journey, creating a culture of excellence

  • Our Student Success Team track student achievement and development beginning in Kindergarten

  • We use an enhanced learning curriculum that goes well beyond The Ontario Kindergarten Program to ensure students are academically prepared for Grade 1 and beyond

Expanding Student Perspectives

  • Community engagement, educational field trips, guest speakers and cultural appreciation broaden and deepen students’ understanding of the world around them

  • We use our Upper School resources to enhance the kindergarten experience with opportunities for integration and collaboration

  • Children can’t express interest in what they don’t know exists. We continually expose students to exciting new learning opportunities to expand their perspectives

Curiosity + Purposeful Play = A Dynamic Place to Learn

  • Our teachers ensure purposeful play is a priority in Kindergarten to establish a love of learning

  • Purposeful play allows students to explore their interests through carefully crafted activities designed to challenge and educate

  • Teachers skillfully teach foundational skills in ways that are engaging and fun for students

  • We encourage passion and exploration, a sense of wonder, and a love of learning

  • A bright welcoming classroom ensures students are excited to come to school each day

  • STEM activities inspire curiosity, creativity, and innovation

Individual Attention, Small Class Sizes, Differentiated Instruction

  • Maximum class sizes of 15 guarantees each student gets the attention they deserve

  • Teachers work with every child, every day

  • Learning without distraction. We have classes where teachers can teach and students can learn. Students respect each others right to learn

  • We meet students where they are and put them on a strategic path to success

  • Teachers use their knowledge of each student to differentiate instruction

Access To Play

Exciting news! The indoor playspace at InnovOak is now complete, adding a new dimension to the Kindergarten experience. While social interaction and adventure remain keystones for our Kindergarten program, we're thrilled to offer even more opportunities for active play and exploration. With the addition of the indoor playground, students will have the chance to run, play, and engage in physical activity regularly, regardless of the weather conditions. 

Located just steps from the picturesque Victoria Park, our campus provides access to outdoor play structures and open environments where students can immerse themselves in nature and expand their horizons under the guidance of our caring teachers. At InnovOak, we're committed to providing a dynamic and enriching learning environment where every child can thrive and grow.


Montessori Inspired Learning

Inclusion of Montessori materials and environments into the Kindergarten classroom is InnovOak's development of a results driven education. Taking the best of traditional education in combination with Montessori manipulatives, InnovOak School's education experts have designed a program in which students develop fine motor skills and a deeper understanding of the basics of learning to exceed past traditional education standards.