Early Childhood Academics: 3K, 4K, and 5K
At Wauwatosa Lutheran, we know these first school years set the tone for a lifetime of learning. Our early childhood classrooms are joyful, nurturing, and Christ-centered—helping children grow academically, socially, and spiritually at a pace that’s right for them.
Flexible Options That Fit Your Family
We offer half-day and full-day schedules for 3K and 4K, giving families the flexibility to choose what works best. Half-day mornings focus on core learning and routines, while full-day students enjoy additional enrichment, lunch, rest time, and extended play.
What Will My Child Learn?
3K & 4K
- Faith: Daily “Jesus Time” and weekly chapel build a foundation of love, kindness, and respect.
- Language & Literacy: Stories, songs, rhymes, and early writing spark communication skills.
- Math Readiness: Games and hands-on activities with numbers, shapes, and patterns.
- Science & Exploration: Curious minds learn through experiments, nature walks, and discovery play.
- Creative Arts: Music, movement, and art activities encourage imagination and expression.
- Social Skills: Play and centers teach cooperation, sharing, and problem-solving
5K (Kindergarten)
- Reading & Writing: Sight words, phonics, and guided reading groups help children begin 1st grade as confident readers.
- Math: Addition/subtraction, time, money, and measurement through Saxon Math.
- Science & Social Studies: STEM activities, nature study, community helpers, American symbols, and more.
- Spanish & Music: Twice-weekly enrichment classes build language and creative skills.
- Faith & Character: Bible stories, prayer, and virtues like courage and responsibility woven into each day.
Early Childhood FAQs
What does a day look like?
- Arrival & Play: Learning centers with hands-on activities.
- Morning Meeting: Calendar, weather, and stories tied to the theme of the week.
- Learning Blocks: Reading, math, and discovery time with whole-group, small-group, and one-on-one instruction.
- Movement & Music: Daily time to play, sing, and move—inside and outdoors.
- Faith Connection: Daily devotion and prayer.
- Rest & Reset (Full-Day): Mid-day brain break so children return refreshed.
- Afternoon Enrichment: Extended play, author studies, science experiments, and creative projects.
What half-day options are offered?
- Half-day programs run 8:30–11:15 AM.
- 3K: Tuesday–Thursday mornings or Monday–Friday mornings
- 4K: Monday–Friday mornings
Will my child be ready for 1st grade?
Yes! Our 5K graduates enter 1st grade as confident readers and problem-solvers. We focus on early literacy, Saxon Math, science, social studies, and faith-based character development so they’re well-prepared academically and socially.
What if my child still needs a nap?
That’s normal at this age! Full-day students enjoy a mid-day “brain break.” Some nap, others rest quietly with a blanket and a snuggle buddy. This time helps kids recharge and retain what they’ve learned.
How much play vs. learning time is there?
At Wauwatosa Lutheran, play is learning. Children explore through outdoor play, music, and movement, balanced with structured lessons in reading, math, science, and faith.
What age can my child start 3K, 4K, and 5K?
Your child needs to be the corresponding age on or before September 1st of the school year. For example, your child needs to be 4 years old on or before September 1st to start 4K.
Does my child need to be potty-trained?
Yes, before your student starts school with us, they need to be potty-trained.