Kindergarten Core Components FAQ

Is “snack” a part of the kindergarten schedule?

Snack is not a required component of the day. Depending on lunch, it may not even be necessary. If deemed necessary, teams should consider incorporating snack into multiple community times or centers.

Are children allowed to play in kindergarten?

Approximately 30-40 minutes should be allocated for centers (Student-Selected Activities or Guided Play). This can be used as one full block or 2-20 minute blocks staggered throughout the day. Play supports transfer of learning and allows teachers to facilitate learning Links to an external site. in an authentic, child-friendly setting.

Centers are:

• a core component of the early childhood program;
• included in the daily schedule; and,
• should not be used as a reward or punishment.

Please see the Core Components page for more information.

How long is Circle Time/Quiet Time/Take Ten/Music & Movement?

These are examples of multiple community times, which are intended to support the developmental needs of young children. The use of multiple community times should be purposeful and responsive to class need; as such, they may not be needed on a daily basis, but instead incorporated throughout the course of a week. Please see the Core Components page for more information.

Is morning work required?

The use of morning work is not required. It can be used as part of the arrival routine but should be completed in a timely fashion. Morning work is not intended to be busy work; if used, it should support the curriculum. In place of morning work, teachers can use a series of arrival routines that help children develop independence, build self-reliance, practice executive function skills, participate in appropriate socialization, and contribute to the orderliness of their classroom environment.