The Gilliard Group

HighScope Curriculum

The HighScope Curriculum is built around active participatory learning. It follows a specific, predictable routine called the “Plan-Do-Review” process, which gives children control over their learning day, building confidence and responsibility.

  • Focus: Active Learning. Your child learns through direct, hands-on experiences with people, objects, events, and ideas. They are encouraged to be independent thinkers and problem-solvers.
  • Affiliation: This curriculum follows the guidelines and standards set by the Jersey City Board of Education

Sample Schedule

Time Frame Activity Purpose & Curriculum Focus
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Wrap Around Easing into the day with quiet activities.
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM Breakfast & Self-Help Skills Fosters independence and promotes nutrition.
8:45 AM - 9:10 AM Morning Free Play Promotes socialization, decision-making, and imaginative play before structured time.
9:10 AM - 9:20 AM Morning Meeting (Circle Time) Large group time promoting cognitive skills, language, and social-emotional skills.
9:20 AM - 9:30 AM Transition/Prep for Small Group Preparing materials and moving to differentiated learning centers.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Small Group Instruction Teachers conduct targeted activities tailored to small groups' developmental needs (e.g., pre-writing, science).
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Planning/Work Time (1 Hour) Core learning block where children engage in chosen activities (Interest Areas). Creative Curriculum and HighScope's "Plan-Do-Review" are implemented.
11:00 AM - 11:15 AM Recall Time & Read Aloud Children reflect on their morning learning and transition to lunch with a calming story.
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM Lunch & Bathroom Routine Practicing nutrition, manners, and personal care.
12:00 PM - 1:15 PM Rest Time / Quiet Activities Time for quiet rest or focused quiet activities.
1:15 PM - 1:45 PM Afternoon Snack Social interaction and practicing self-help skills immediately following rest time.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Outdoor/Gross Motor Play Time dedicated to developing gross motor skills, coordination, and social interaction, positioned before dismissal.
2:15 PM - 2:45 PM Story Time / General Activity A calm, final activity like reading or quiet center before dismissal begins at 2:45 PM.
2:45 PM - 6:00 PM Extended Day / Wrap-Around Care Supplemental learning and structured free play for children remaining after dismissal.

For more information about the curriculum, please visit https://highscope.org/
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