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Early Start & Pre-Kinder Arts

Welcome to the Early Start & Pre-Kinder Arts Program, where we believe in igniting the spark of learning and creativity from the very beginning of a child's journey. Our program offers a nurturing and dynamic environment for children aged 6 months to 5 years, ensuring that their developmental skills flourish while they have fun and engage in artistic exploration. 
 

Early Start


Program Focus 

  • Vocabulary Development: Encourage early language skills through interactive activities and play. 

  • Separation Anxiety: Help children ease into social interactions and reduce separation anxiety. 

  • Social Skills: Foster essential social skills to interact positively with peers and caregivers. 

  • Listening & Following Directions: Enhance listening skills and the ability to follow basic instructions. 

  • Exploration of Learning: Cultivate a love for exploration and learning through interactive play. 

  • Playful Communication: Communicate effectively through play and a variety of activities. 


Engaging Activities for Students & Parents 

  • Circle time 

  • Story time 

  • Family literacy sessions 

  • Music & Art activities 

  • Learning centers & free play 

  • Parenting classes 

  • Field-trips 

 
Early Start Dates & Times 
Mondays & Wednesdays: 9:30 to 11:30 AM 

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Pre-Kinder Arts

Building Readiness & Creativity for Ages 3 to 5

Our Pre-Kinder Arts Program provides children aged 3 to 5 with a vibrant learning environment that focuses on school readiness and unleashing their creative potential. 

Activities for Students

  • Circle Time Activities: Including singing, interactive calendar, story/book sessions, and more. 

  • Small Group Activities: Crafting small books, reading, music, art, and movement activities. 

  • School Readiness & Arts: Language, cognitive, and art development activities to build key skills. 

  • Free Play: Engaging activities including art, dramatic play, music, and educational games. 

  • Parenting Classes: Focus on important child development topics and strategies. 

 

Pre-Kinder Dates & Times 
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9:30 to 11:30 AM 
 

Note: Snacks are provided, but parents are welcome to bring their own. A caregiver presence is required during class.

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Child Care Worker Certificate
 

Parents and caregivers accompanying children can take advantage of free classes offered in partnership with Santa Ana College. These classes run concurrently with both Early Start and Pre-Kinder Arts Programs. If you're interested in becoming a certified Child Care Worker, enroll in these courses to earn a Child Care Worker Certificate from the Rancho Santiago Community College District.  

 

The courses cover

  1. Employability Skills 

  2. Early Childhood and Development for Family and Child Care Providers 

  3. Business Practices in Family Day Care 

  4. Health Education for Family Daycare Providers 

  5. Introduction to How to Start a Small Business
     

Gain practical experience in a childcare setting by undergoing a background check and a TB test. 

Get In Touch

For inquiries about the Program, please don't hesitate to contact our dedicated team members: 

Claudia Mora

Early Start & Pre-Kinder Arts Program Coordinator

T: 714-547-5468

E: claudiam@occtac.org

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