TK vs. Pre-K vs. Kindergarten: What’s the Difference—and Which Fits My Child?

If your child has a late-summer birthday—and you’re wondering whether they’re emotionally ready for kindergarten —you’re not alone. We hear from many TBOP families whose children are academically ready but shy, slow-to-warm, or still building confidence in groups. Again and again, those families tell us: “Choosing a Young-5s/Transitional Kindergarten year was the best decision we ever made .” And our teachers echo it “If you have even an inkling that a bridge year could help, you will never regret giving your child the gift of time .” What “ready” really means Kindergarten readiness isn’t just letters and numbers. It’s also: Emotional stamina (long mornings, lots of transitions) Confidence in groups (raising a hand, joining play) Self-regulation (recovering from big feelings) Independence (managing a backpack, bathroom, routines) Many late-summer birthdays—especially shy or slow-to-warm kids—benefit from one more year to strengthen these skills. What a Bridge Year looks like at TBOP Our Young-5s / Transitional Kindergarten (TK) class is a small, nurturing “Kindergarten Bridge” designed for children who can do the work, but would thrive with extra time to grow. Small classes, low ratios → more coaching, more confidence Letterland literacy (the same phonics program used in Wake County) Play-based math & science woven into centers and projects Conscious Discipline for self-regulation, friendships, and problem-solving Leadership moments (class jobs, buddy work, show-and-tell) that help shy kids practice using their voice Kids leave TK excited for kindergarten—academically ready and emotionally steady. “But will they be the oldest?” (Common questions, answered) Will my child be “too old” later on? Being an older, more confident leader is typically a strength , not a drawback. Teachers often report smoother transitions, better self-advocacy, and fewer school-day tears. Will they be bored academically? Not with us. We differentiate—children stretch at their level while building endurance, attention, and peer skills that make learning stick. Will this delay friendships? Usually the opposite. With time to grow, shy kids tend to join play sooner , use words to solve problems, and make deeper friendships. 6 gentle signs a Bridge Year may help Your child is shy/slow-to-warm and needs time before joining groups. Afternoons often bring big feelings or extra fatigue. New environments feel overwhelming at first. They’re academically solid , but avoid speaking up. Fine-motor stamina (writing, cutting) is still developing . Your gut says “almost ready… but not quite.” If a few of these sound familiar, that little nudge you feel is worth listening to. Parent voices we hear every year “He could read, but he hid in groups. Now he volunteers.” “She used to say, ‘I can’t.’ Now we hear, ‘ I can try .’” “Mornings went from tears to happily running into class.” The gift of time A Young-5s year isn’t “waiting.” It’s building —confidence, language for feelings, friendships, and the stamina school requires. For many late-summer birthdays and shy kids, it’s the difference between surviving kindergarten and loving it. Next steps Talk with us: Schedule a quick readiness chat. See it in action: Tour our TK/Young-5s classroom. Not sure yet? Download our 2-minute Kindergarten Readiness Checklist. Temple Beth Or Preschool’s Young-5s / Transitional Kindergarten : small classes, Letterland like WCPSS, and a year devoted to growing brave, kind, confident learners. Have a question about your late-summer birthday kiddo? We’re happy to be a thinking partner.

When kids are revved up, “Stop!” often lands like a grenade—big emotion, little learning. In Conscious Discipline, we try to name what to do , not just what not to do. Clear, doable language helps children regulate, succeed, and feel safe. Why “stop” backfires It’s vague (what should I do instead?). It can escalate power struggles. Dysregulated brains need specific, simple directions . Try this 3-step shift Notice : “You’re running inside.” Name the need/boundary : “This room is for walking.” Give the do : “ Use walking feet. ” Quick swaps for everyday moments Running indoors “ Pause. Check your body. Walking feet inside. ” “ Freeze. Let’s try slow feet to the cubbies.” Grabbing toys “ Hands waiting. Ask, ‘Can I have a turn when you’re done?’” “ Gentle hands. You may hold this one; that one is Sam’s.” Hitting/rough play “ I won’t let you hit. Your hands can squeeze this pillow .” “ Safe body. Keep your hands on your own body.” Shouting “ Voices off. Now quiet voice so I can hear you.” “ Pause and breathe. Let’s try talking voice .” Throwing blocks/toys “Blocks are for building . Balls are for throwing—want one?” “ Put it gently on the mat like this.” Water/sand everywhere “Water stays in the sink . You can splash in the tub at home .” “ Scoop and pour inside the bin.” Interrupting “ Hold your thought. Put your hand on my arm; I’ll look at you when I’m ready.” “ Wait cue. When the timer beeps, it’s your turn to talk.” Transitions “ Two more minutes . Then shoes on .” “ First clean up, then playground.” Power words to post at home/school Pause, Freeze, Gentle hands, Walking feet, Voices off, Safe body, Hands waiting, Try again, Let’s switch, First–Then, Your turn is next When “stop” is right For immediate safety, be direct and firm: “ Stop. Car is coming.” Follow with the do : “ Hold my hand. ” Keep it teachable Breathe first. Your calm regulates their storm. Model the action (“I’ll show you walking feet”). Offer a choice (“Crayons or markers?”). Practice when calm —play “Freeze/Go,” set up role-plays, use visuals. Tiny scripts you can pocket “Pause. Look at my eyes. Walk.” “ I won’t let you… You may …” “ Use your words: ‘My turn when you’re done.’” “ Try again… slowly. ” “ First coat, then outside.” Bottom line: Swap “stop” for clear, doable directions . The more we say what to do, the faster kids learn the skill—and the calmer everyone feels. 

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

Potty training. Just the phrase alone can bring up anxiety, questions, and more than a few stories from the parenting trenches. At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we believe that every child is on their own timeline—and that includes mastering the potty. We’ve heard from many families who’ve come to us from other programs frustrated, overwhelmed, or feeling like they’ve failed. Maybe their child was ready to start potty training, but their daycare didn’t allow support in the classroom. Or maybe their child wasn’t quite ready, but the school required them to be trained before enrollment. Either way, parents are often left feeling stuck. At TBOP, we take a different approach—one that honors where your child is, not where someone else says they should be. We Meet Kids Where They Are (Yes, Even in Pull-Ups) We know that potty training is a major milestone, and it doesn’t happen the same way—or on the same schedule—for every child. That’s why we: Welcome children in all stages of potty training —from pull-ups to fully trained Work with families to create a consistent plan across home and school Support commando kiddos (no pull-ups or underwear) with understanding and flexibility Celebrate small wins —from sitting on the potty to mastering the flush! If your child is showing interest at home, we’ll hop on the “potty train” and continue the routine here. If your child needs more time and reassurance, we’re right there with them. Our Philosophy: Respect, Patience, and Encouragement We don’t shame. We don’t pressure. And we definitely don’t expect toddlers to conform to a one-size-fits-all potty policy. Instead, we offer: Calm, consistent language Gentle reminders and visual cues Supportive teachers who know how to spot readiness signs A culture that understands accidents are part of learning—not something to fear Many families are surprised (and relieved!) to find that once the pressure is off, their child actually thrives in a supportive environment like TBOP. We’ve seen children go from nervous or resistant to proud and confident—just because someone believed in their timeline. You're Not Behind. You're Just on Your Child’s Timeline. Potty training is one of the first big lessons in parenting: we can guide, model, and support—but ultimately, our kids are in the driver’s seat. At TBOP, we’re here to be your copilots. Whether your child is just starting out or almost there, we’re ready to walk (or sprint!) this journey with you. Got potty training questions or concerns? Let’s talk. You’re not alone—and we’re here to help.

If you’re the parent of a preschooler, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “kindergarten readiness.” And chances are, you’ve also wondered: Is my child ready? What should they know? What if they’re not writing their name yet? Take a deep breath—you’re not alone. At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we believe in preparing children for kindergarten in a way that’s developmentally appropriate, joyful, and rooted in confidence—not pressure. What Kindergarten Readiness Does Mean Kindergarten readiness isn’t just about knowing letters and numbers (although we cover that too!). It’s about helping children grow in four key areas: Social-Emotional Development Can your child separate from caregivers with growing ease? Can they take turns, ask for help, and manage big feelings with support? These foundational skills often matter more than early academics when starting kindergarten. Self-Help Skills Things like zipping a backpack, cleaning up after snack, and using the bathroom independently help children feel confident in a classroom setting. Language & Communication Kindergarten teachers look for kids who can follow directions, express themselves clearly, and engage in conversations—not necessarily those who are reading early. Curiosity and Engagement A child who’s excited to explore, ask questions, and try new things is more than ready to learn—because learning is already happening. What Kindergarten Readiness Doesn’t Mean Being able to read or write fluently Memorizing long lists of facts Sitting still for long periods Being the most academically “advanced” in the class There’s no one-size-fits-all checklist—and there’s no rush. Children develop at their own pace, and readiness is about more than milestones. How TBOP Supports Readiness, the Right Way In our 4s classrooms (Tigers & Monkeys), we combine strong early academics with plenty of play, movement, and creativity. We use the Letterland literacy program (the same one used in Wake County Public Schools), introduce number sense, patterning, and simple graphing through games, and guide kids toward independence and problem-solving. We also focus heavily on emotional intelligence, community-building, and confidence. Kids take on classroom jobs, resolve conflicts with teacher support, and learn how to advocate for themselves and others—all through age-appropriate, hands-on experiences. When they leave TBOP, they’re not just ready for kindergarten. They’re ready to show up as curious, compassionate, and capable learners. Questions about your child’s transition to kindergarten? We’re always happy to chat—because readiness isn’t just about the child, it’s about helping families feel supported too.

When it comes to choosing a preschool, it’s easy to focus on the basics: location, curriculum, schedule. But one factor that often gets overlooked—and makes a major difference in your child’s experience—is class size . At Temple Beth Or Preschool, we keep our classes small for a reason. With two teachers in every classroom and intentionally low student-to-teacher ratios, we’re able to offer the kind of personal attention and connection that young children truly need to grow. Here’s why that matters: 1. More Individualized Attention Every child learns differently. Some jump right into circle time; others need a little encouragement. In a small class, teachers can truly get to know each child—their interests, their personality, their unique learning style—and adapt the day accordingly. This means: Teachers can spot and nurture each child’s strengths Kids who need a little extra help aren’t overlooked Children build meaningful bonds with the adults in their classroom 2. Stronger Relationships, Safer Spaces Preschool is often the first time a child spends extended time away from their family. Small classes make this transition easier by creating a warm, consistent, and emotionally safe environment. Children in smaller classrooms: Form deeper friendships with classmates Feel more seen and heard Are more likely to speak up, try new things, and participate It’s not just about physical safety—it’s about emotional safety, too. 3. Better Support for Social-Emotional Learning Learning how to share, cooperate, and solve problems is just as important as learning ABCs—and it takes practice. In a smaller group, teachers have more time to coach children through tricky moments instead of simply managing behavior. At TBOP, we use the Conscious Discipline model to help children name their feelings, practice empathy, and build conflict resolution skills. Small class sizes allow us to be present and patient in those critical moments of growth. 4. A Quieter, More Focused Environment Let’s be real: preschool can be loud! With fewer children in a classroom, the energy is still joyful and playful—but there’s more room for focus, calm, and creativity. Small class sizes allow: More uninterrupted play and deeper concentration Easier transitions between activities More opportunities for teachers to introduce meaningful learning moments throughout the day 5. More Confidence for Kindergarten With fewer peers, children have more chances to lead, take on classroom jobs, and develop independence. By the time they leave our NAEYC-accredited, 5-star Raleigh preschool , they’re not only academically prepared—they’re confident and emotionally ready for kindergarten. (Explore our blog: Kindergarten Readiness: What It Means ) The TBOP Difference We keep our classes small not because it’s easy—but because it’s worth it. At Temple Beth Or Preschool, our teachers aren’t just managing a room—they’re mentoring, listening, guiding, and connecting with every child, every day. When your child is in a classroom where they are truly known, everything else falls into place. Want to see what a small, joyful classroom looks like in action? Schedule a visit and come see why families call TBOP one of the top Raleigh preschools for early childhood education.

At Temple Beth Or Preschool, our goal isn’t just to help children learn letters and numbers—it’s to help them grow into kind, confident, resilient human beings. That’s why we use the Conscious Discipline approach throughout our classrooms. You may have heard your child mention “breathing like a star” or “taking a break to calm down,” but what does it all mean? Here’s a closer look at what Conscious Discipline is, and how it shapes the day-to-day experience at TBOP. What is Conscious Discipline? Conscious Discipline is a trauma-informed, evidence-based social-emotional learning program that helps children—and adults—build the skills needed to manage emotions, make thoughtful choices, and create a strong sense of community. It was developed by Dr. Becky Bailey and is used in thousands of schools across the country. At its heart, Conscious Discipline teaches that discipline is not something we do to children—it’s something we teach them. It shifts the focus from punishment and compliance to connection, emotional regulation, and problem-solving . What Does That Look Like in a Preschool Classroom? In a Conscious Discipline classroom, you’ll notice a few key things: Connection Before Correction: Teachers focus on building strong, trusting relationships with each child, knowing that connection is the foundation for learning and growth. Safe Spaces to Calm: Each classroom has a “Safe Place,” where children can go when they’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s not a punishment—it's a tool for self-regulation. Language That Empowers: Teachers use language that models empathy, helps children name their feelings, and guides them through challenges rather than controlling behavior with fear or rewards. Consistent Routines & Rituals: Visual schedules, greeting rituals, and classroom jobs give children structure and ownership of their day, helping them feel secure and included. Problem Solving Together: Instead of “time-outs,” teachers walk children through moments of conflict with empathy and reflection. This helps kids learn how to solve problems, not just that certain behaviors aren’t allowed. What Kind of Training Do TBOP Teachers Receive? Our teachers participate in ongoing professional development in Conscious Discipline , including workshops, in-school coaching, and team discussions. They learn not only how to guide children through big emotions, but also how to reflect on their own responses and bring calm, mindful leadership into the classroom. This training is grounded in neuroscience and child development research—and it supports everything from classroom management to lifelong relationship skills. Why It Matters for Your Child When your child is taught through the lens of Conscious Discipline, they’re learning more than how to take turns or say “I’m sorry.” They’re learning: How to recognize and manage their emotions How to handle conflict with empathy and respect How to feel safe, heard, and valued How to be part of a caring community At TBOP, we believe in nurturing the whole child. Conscious Discipline helps us do just that—guiding children with compassion, modeling respectful relationships, and planting the seeds for emotional resilience and inner confidence. Want to learn more or try Conscious Discipline strategies at home? Let us know—we love partnering with families on this journey.