Preschool is often a child’s first step into structured learning outside the home. For Calgary families, it marks a crucial stage in early development—one that shapes how children think, feel, play, and interact with the world around them. While every child grows at their own pace, there are essential skills and concepts they’re expected to explore and begin mastering in preschool.
In this article, we’ll break down what children typically learn in preschool, how programs are designed in Calgary, and how a centre like Chapter 1 Daycare supports this exciting phase of growth.
A Well-Rounded Start: What Children Learn in Preschool
Preschool learning goes far beyond the ABCs. The best programs are designed to help children grow academically, emotionally, physically, and socially, creating a foundation for kindergarten and life beyond.
Early Literacy and Language Development
One of the most noticeable areas of growth in preschool is language. Children begin to recognize letters, identify the sounds they make, and explore how words work together. They’re encouraged to tell stories, ask questions, and engage in conversations with peers and educators.
In many Calgary preschools, storytime, circle time, and imaginative play are core parts of the day, helping children develop vocabulary, comprehension, and expressive language.
Building Math and Numeracy Skills
Preschool introduces children to numbers in a playful, engaging way. Counting, recognizing shapes, identifying patterns, and understanding quantity help build the foundation for future math learning.
For example, a simple game of sorting blocks by color or shape introduces classification. Singing songs with numbers or using manipulatives like beads makes math part of daily exploration, without the pressure of “lessons.”
Discover the Chapter 1 Experience
Schedule a tour today and see how we nurture your child’s growth through play, creativity, and learning.
Developing Fine and Gross Motor Skills
Children strengthen their fine motor skills by drawing, painting, using scissors, or building with small blocks. These activities help prepare their hands and fingers for writing, buttoning a shirt, or opening a lunchbox.
Meanwhile, gross motor development happens through climbing, running, dancing, and outdoor play. Many Calgary centres, including Chapter 1 Daycare, ensure that children have regular access to safe indoor and outdoor spaces where they can move freely and build coordination.
Social and Emotional Growth
Learning how to navigate friendships and manage emotions is a major part of preschool. Children begin to understand how to take turns, follow group instructions, and work through small conflicts with support. Educators model and encourage positive behaviors like empathy, kindness, and patience.
This emotional growth sets the stage for resilience and self-confidence. A well-rounded preschool program helps children recognize their feelings, express them appropriately, and understand how others might be feeling, too.
Cognitive Development and Inquiry Skills
Preschool also encourages curiosity and independent thinking. Children are introduced to basic science, nature, and cause-and-effect concepts through hands-on activities. They learn to ask questions, make predictions, and test their ideas—key components of cognitive development.
Whether they’re exploring how ice melts, watching a caterpillar turn into a butterfly, or learning to solve simple puzzles, children are constantly learning how to think critically and creatively.
Creativity and Imagination
Creative expression is a vital part of the preschool experience. Children experiment with paint, music, pretend play, and dance. These expressive activities help them process their world, tell stories, and build confidence in how they express themselves.
It’s not about creating perfect art—it’s about exploring ideas and emotions through creative outlets.
How Preschool Learning Happens in Calgary
Preschool programs in Calgary often follow play-based learning models, which are backed by both research and local educational frameworks like Alberta’s FLIGHT curriculum. In these settings, children learn through exploration, imagination, and real-world experiences, all within a safe and structured environment.
This approach balances structured routines—such as storytime, snack time, and group activities—with free play, where children choose their own adventures under gentle guidance from educators.
Some programs also integrate themes like seasons, community helpers, or animals to keep learning relatable and engaging. At Chapter 1 Daycare, for instance, our educators observe children’s interests and plan age-appropriate lessons that build on those natural curiosities.
What Preschoolers Should Know Before Kindergarten
Parents often wonder if their child is “ready” for kindergarten. While every child is different, there are some general abilities most preschoolers develop before starting school:
- Speaking in full sentences and expressing needs
- Following simple instructions and group routines
- Identifying letters, numbers, shapes, and colors
- Managing personal hygiene with support (e.g., washing hands, toileting)
- Engaging in cooperative play and basic problem-solving with peers
These skills help ensure that children feel confident and prepared when they transition into more formal schooling environments.
Supporting Preschool Learning at Home
Parents play a key role in reinforcing what’s learned in preschool. Simple activities at home can go a long way. Reading books together, singing rhymes, labeling objects around the house, and allowing unstructured playtime all support early learning.
Including your child in daily tasks—like counting apples at the grocery store or sorting laundry by color—helps apply classroom concepts to real-life situations. You don’t need fancy tools; just consistency, curiosity, and conversation.
How Chapter 1 Daycare Supports Preschool Learning in Calgary
At Chapter 1 Daycare, we understand the importance of early learning in shaping a child’s lifelong love for discovery. Our Pre-Kindergarten Program is designed to provide a nurturing, stimulating environment where children can explore, grow, and thrive.
We focus on:
- Language and Literacy Development: Through stories, songs, and hands-on activities.
- Math and Cognitive Skills: Using age-appropriate games and creative problem-solving.
- Social and Emotional Learning: Fostering friendships, empathy, and group cooperation.
- Motor Development: With both structured activities and free outdoor play.
- Creative Exploration: Encouraging imagination through art, music, and drama.
Our Calgary preschool program is aligned with provincial standards and tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. With small group sizes and compassionate educators, we make sure every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated.
We also maintain open communication with parents through daily updates, developmental check-ins, and community-building events, because we believe preschool success is a partnership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a preschooler in Calgary learn?
They should develop foundational skills in language, math, social behavior, emotional regulation, motor skills, and creativity—all through play and guided exploration.
How do preschool programs in Alberta differ?
While most follow similar learning domains, approaches may vary. Some programs are more structured, while others emphasize emergent, child-led learning. Alberta’s FLIGHT framework encourages holistic, play-based development.
Is my child behind if they don’t know letters or numbers yet?
Not at all. Preschool is about exposure, not mastery. Children progress at different rates, and strong programs adapt to individual needs.
Is play really that important in preschool?
Absolutely. Play is how young children learn best. It allows them to make sense of the world, express themselves, and build problem-solving skills in a meaningful way.
Final Thoughts: Nurturing Bright Futures Through Preschool
Preschool lays the foundation for everything that follows. It’s where children begin to develop their sense of self, their love for learning, and their understanding of how to be part of a community.
At Chapter 1 Daycare in Calgary, we’re proud to guide families through this important chapter. Our program focuses on whole-child development, blending structure with freedom, academics with creativity, and care with purpose.
Schedule a tour today to learn how we can support your child’s first steps into lifelong learning.