One of the biggest questions parents ask us is: “Will my child be ready for kindergarten?” At Temple Beth Or Preschool, the answer is a confident yes. Not only do we nurture confidence, empathy, and curiosity—we also intentionally align our curriculum and classroom experiences with what children will encounter in Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS) . If you’re wondering what kindergarten readiness really looks like in our area, or how TBOP supports that transition, here’s everything you need to know. What Does Wake County Kindergarten Look Like? WCPSS follows the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development and uses Letterland for literacy instruction. Kindergarten is built around a balance of early academics, independence, and social-emotional development. Here’s a quick look at some of the expectations: Literacy Recognizing and naming all letters (uppercase and lowercase) Identifying letter sounds (phonemic awareness) Understanding print concepts (left to right, top to bottom) Beginning to write letters and simple words Math Counting and recognizing numbers (1–20 and beyond) Comparing quantities (more/less, same/different) Recognizing basic shapes Understanding patterns and measurement Social-Emotional Development Managing emotions and using words to express needs Taking turns and sharing Following multi-step directions Working independently and with a group Self-Help & Independence Unpacking their backpack and managing belongings Using the bathroom independently Asking for help appropriately Navigating the school day with confidence How TBOP Gets Your Child There We intentionally structure our 4s and Transitional Kindergarten programs to prepare children for all aspects of the kindergarten experience—not just the academics. We Use Letterland—Just Like WCPSS At TBOP, we use Letterland , the same phonics-based literacy program your child will see again in Wake County elementary classrooms. Through Letterland Labs, we introduce: Letter sounds and characters Rhyming, syllables, and simple word building Pre-writing and writing with engaging, hands-on tools This familiarity builds confidence and eases the transition into “big kid” school. We Build Math Foundations Through Play Our math curriculum is woven into everyday activities. Children count during songs, measure ingredients while cooking, sort objects by color and size, graph their favorite fruits, and build patterns with blocks. These early math skills are fun, meaningful, and developmentally appropriate. We Focus on Emotional Readiness Through the Conscious Discipline model, we help children learn to: Identify and regulate their emotions Solve problems with words Build empathy and kindness Feel secure in a group setting Our classrooms are built around relationships, routines, and reflection—which makes for confident, resilient learners. We Build Independence (Gently) We create opportunities every day for children to practice age-appropriate independence: Taking on classroom jobs Managing transitions Cleaning up materials Packing their backpacks Asking questions and advocating for themselves These small moments prepare children for the self-management skills they’ll need in kindergarten and beyond. We Don’t Rush Childhood—We Prepare It with Purpose We know that school readiness is about more than knowing letters and numbers—it’s about being emotionally ready to learn, socially ready to connect, and confident enough to try.  By combining a play-based curriculum with Wake County-aligned instruction , TBOP gives children the best of both worlds: a joyful, loving early childhood experience that also lays the foundation for academic success. Not sure what “kindergarten readiness” really means? Start with our post: Kindergarten Readiness—What It Means (and Doesn’t Mean)

Potty training can feel like one of the biggest parenting hurdles in the preschool years. If you’ve already read our first post— Potty Training Without Pressure at TBOP —you know we believe that every child is on their own timeline. And we mean it. But once your child starts showing interest, many parents wonder: What’s the best way to actually do this? There’s no one-size-fits-all approach—but there are several popular potty training methods out there. And at Temple Beth Or Preschool, we’re here to meet you and your child wherever you are in the process. Popular Potty Training Methods (and How They Work) 1. Child-Led (a.k.a. “Wait Until They’re Ready”) This method is all about tuning into your child’s cues and letting them take the lead. Parents gently introduce the potty, offer encouragement, and wait until the child shows consistent signs of readiness—like staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in underwear, or telling you they need to go. Why it works: Less pressure, fewer power struggles What to watch for: Progress may take longer—but it tends to stick 2. The 3-Day Method A more intensive approach where you spend 2–3 days at home in underwear (or “commando”), watching for signs your child needs to go and rushing them to the potty when needed. Accidents are expected, but the idea is that by staying consistent and focused, kids build awareness quickly. Why it works: Great for kids who are developmentally ready What to watch for: Can be stressful if your child’s not quite there yet 3. Routine-Based (Preschool-Friendly) This approach builds potty time into the daily routine—sit after meals, before leaving the house, after nap, etc. It’s predictable, low-stress, and ideal for children who thrive on structure. Why it works: Helps kids make the potty part of their normal day What to watch for: May require more time to click, but great for school settings 4. Hybrid or “Let’s See What Works” Honestly? This is what most families end up doing. A little child-led, a little routine, a little “whoops we forgot underwear today!” There’s no right or wrong combo—as long as it works for your child and feels sustainable for your family. How We Support Potty Training at TBOP At TBOP, we partner with families to extend whatever method you're using at home into the classroom—no judgment, no pressure. Here’s what that can look like: Pull-ups? No problem. Going “commando”? Totally fine. Fully trained at home but nervous at school? We’ll support that transition with kindness and patience. Need visual reminders or potty timers? We can work with that, too. We know that consistency and encouragement are the real keys to success—and we’re happy to be your teammates through this milestone. A Few Pro Tips from Our Teachers Celebrate effort, not just results. (“You sat on the potty! That’s a big step!”) Avoid shame around accidents. They’re part of learning, not a setback. Model and narrate. Kids learn a lot just from hearing things like “I’m going to the bathroom so my body feels good.” Stay flexible. There might be regression after illness, travel, or big changes—and that’s okay! You’re Doing Great Seriously. Potty training is messy, unpredictable, and full of moments where you wonder, Is this ever going to click?  It will. And in the meantime, we’ll be here—helping your child build independence, confidence, and the joy of saying, “I did it myself!”

TBOP Voted Best Preschool/Early Education Program in Wake County! We’re honored (and just a little giddy) to share that Temple Beth Or Preschool has been voted Best Preschool/Early Education Program in Wake County by the readers of INDY Week! This recognition means the world—not just because we won, but because it was you, our community, who made it happen. You showed up with your votes. You shared our story with friends. You stood with us and supported the work we do every day in our classrooms. More than a win, this feels like a beautiful reflection of who we are together—a joyful, inclusive preschool community where children are celebrated, families feel supported, and learning happens with love. To our teachers: thank you for bringing your whole hearts to your work. To our families: thank you for trusting us with your little ones. To our broader community: thank you for helping TBOP continue to grow, shine, and welcome new families each year. Here’s to another year of hugs, laughter, learning, and lots of messy art projects. We’re so proud to be your preschool. With gratitude, The TBOP Team