Early Learning
Pre-k & Kindergarten
Every moment is a chance for your child to discover, grow, and thrive. Childhood is a time of wonder, and play is its universal language—a powerful tool that bridges learning and joy. That’s why we embrace play as both a pathway to growth and a cornerstone of our approach at Shady Side.
Through a mix of structured and free play, we nurture social, emotional, and academic skills in ways that feel natural and exciting to children. We create experiences that spark curiosity, encouraging students to wonder, ask questions, take risks, and see mistakes as opportunities to learn. Here, learning isn’t just about remembering facts—it’s about building the confidence and skills to explore the world with open hearts and open minds.
Core Program
![arts]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741971129/shadyside/nhtxma3grcxpnz8wbtyw/arts.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1741971129/shadyside/nhtxma3grcxpnz8wbtyw/arts.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1741971129/shadyside/nhtxma3grcxpnz8wbtyw/arts.png","width":800}])
![humanities]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741971024/shadyside/ivj3kfcwgpkmfk4cauvs/humanities.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1741971024/shadyside/ivj3kfcwgpkmfk4cauvs/humanities.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1741971024/shadyside/ivj3kfcwgpkmfk4cauvs/humanities.png","width":800}])
![world languages]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741971046/shadyside/axpzk7iykmlnge34eqe1/languages.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1741971046/shadyside/axpzk7iykmlnge34eqe1/languages.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1741971046/shadyside/axpzk7iykmlnge34eqe1/languages.png","width":800}])
![stem]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741970918/shadyside/cmxrxvkvqq4pdcpbjlfs/stem.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1741970918/shadyside/cmxrxvkvqq4pdcpbjlfs/stem.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1741970918/shadyside/cmxrxvkvqq4pdcpbjlfs/stem.png","width":800}])
We combine play...
...with purposeful learning.
The Magic of Making Mistakes
In Melissa Petitto-Kenny and Nick Hammon’s kindergarten classroom, play is essential. "In our teaching, we try to meet all of our academic objectives in a play-based way,” says Petitto-Kenny. Students are split into small groups – while one works with a teacher, the others have different options throughout the room for activities they can complete. “This allows students to take the lead in their learning, collaborate with their classmates, and work independently while still having structured support."
"We want our students to feel empowered in their learning. Giving them the autonomy to choose their activities and work at their own pace helps build confidence and curiosity that will serve them well beyond kindergarten."
Nick HammonKindergarten Teacher
Beyond the classroom walls, Petitto-Kenny and Hammon are committed to fostering curiosity through real-world experiences. One of their favorite initiatives is Frick Park Fridays, where students explore nature, record observations in their Wonder Journals, and practice the art of questioning. And through every activity, mistakes are encouraged.
“It’s so important for our students to learn how to celebrate their mistakes and learn from them,” says Petitto-Kenny. “Nick and I have to be brave enough to highlight our own mistakes and model how we learn from them and grow. It's something we really want our children to take with them when they go to first grade and throughout their academic careers.”
What Makes the Junior School Experience Unique
The Junior School is uniquely characterized by its vibrant and supportive community, where students are inspired to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. With a dedicated early learning center and a culture influenced by its dynamic urban surroundings, teachers maximize all that a classroom can be, transforming the campus and beyond into a hub of exploration and discovery.
Unleashing creativity in motion.
Read about learning in motion
about Unleashing creativity in motion.
What Makes Country Day School Unique
The learning experience at the Country Day School is uniquely defined by its emphasis on exploration in a nurturing environment. The recent transformation of over 25,000 square feet of facilities highlights our commitment to creating inspiring spaces where children thrive. Teachers and students know that learning is a journey, not a race, and their journey takes them from intimate classrooms to expansive outdoor spaces every day.
Where Curiosity Takes Root
Both of our Lower School campuses offer stunning natural landscapes that spark curiosity and discovery. Students hike winding trails, roll down hills, observe seasonal changes, and turn nature into their classroom. From forming letters with found objects to uncovering the science of the seasons, every moment outside fuels learning that is active, immersive, and full of wonder.
Leading the Way in Lower School
Jennifer Asmonga
Head of Lower Schools
Junior School
Melanie Smith
Assistant Head of School
Dan Stern P'33,'37
Assistant Head of School
Country Day School
Katie Bergamasco
Assistant Head of School
Beth Grover ’01 P'36,'38
Assistant Head of School