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Welcome to our Kindergarten FAQ section! Here, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions parents and guardians have about the Kindergarten program. Whether you’re curious about the curriculum, program options, or the role of educators, we’ve got you covered. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and confident as your child embarks on their learning journey. Take a look below to learn more about how we support your child’s development in a safe, caring, and play-based environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
| What is the curriculum for Kindergarten? |
| We are anticipating a new Ministry of Education Kindergarten curriculum for September 2025.
In Kindergarten, Educator teams use the Ontario Ministry Document, The Kindergarten Program (2016). The Kindergarten Program is a child-centred, developmentally appropriate, integrated program of learning that has a sole purpose of establishing a strong foundation for learning in the early years, and to do this in a safe and caring, play-based environment that promotes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of all children. |
| Is the Kindergarten Program available for families? |
| An overview of what your child will learn can be accessed online through the Ministry of Ontario’s website. |
| Is Kindergarten offered as a half-day option? |
| Kindergarten is a two-year program consisting of year 1 and year 2, previously known as Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten. Students who are enrolled in Kindergarten will attend a full day Monday to Friday program. For any required accommodations, the home school can work alongside your family to understand the current needs and develop a plan that will work best for your child and your family. |
| Is Kindergarten offered as a half-day option? |
| Kindergarten is not mandatory. In Ontario, children are only required to attend school once they turn six years old. However, research has shown that children who are enrolled in a full-day Kindergarten program establish a solid foundation for lifelong learning. |
| What are the ratios for Kindergarten programs? Are two educators enough in the classroom? |
| The exact ratio of students to educators will vary in each class, as the number of students will vary slightly, depending on registration numbers for the school. For classes over 15 students, there will be a Teacher and an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) in each classroom. Most Kindergarten programs have a maximum of 29 students within a classroom space. |
| Are children monitored during outdoor time? |
| Students are supervised at all times of the school day. This is inclusive to indoor and outdoor times/routines throughout the day. The supervision may be provided by a Teacher, ECE, Administrative team member (i.e., Vice Principal), or Part-Time School Aide (lunchroom supervisor). |
| Who is in the ‘Kindergarten Team’? |
| The Kindergarten Team consists of a Teacher and ECE. Together they form a unique partnership that is built to nurture your child's learning through co-creation and intentional planning of purposeful play activities. The Kindergarten team of a Teacher and ECE offer complementary skills that help to create a learning environment that will support the unique needs and reflect the diversity of each child. If you have questions about the team of educators who will be supporting your child, please contact your school directly. |
| What is the difference between an ECE and a Teacher? Is there one I should talk to over the other? |
| The ECE and a Teacher are equal partners in the classroom. When you are wanting to communicate with your child’s educators, it is always best to include both team members. |
| How will the Kindergarten educator team share their classroom documentation? |
| There are a variety of ways that educators may choose to share evidence of your child’s learning with families throughout the year. Some examples may include, but are not limited to, pictures, videos, work samples, learning stories, or voice recordings. At the GECDSB, we use EDSBY, which is a digital platform where educators often document and share student learning. Once your child is registered, you will be provided with access to this digital platform. This documentation helps families to see a child’s growth and learning within the classroom setting. Documentation also supports a school-to-home connection and allows families to engage in specific conversations around the areas of learning their child may be engaged in. The specific tool selected for the documentation process will be dependent on the unique Kindergarten team. |
| How often is the Communication of Learning sent home for families? |
| Families will receive an Initial Observations report in November, as well as two Communication of Learning documents, which will be shared in February and June. Please contact your child’s educator team if you have specific questions about their learning. |
| Do students in Kindergarten use technology in the classroom? |
| All Kindergarten programs have access to iPads and other technology in the classroom space. Technology may be used within your child’s classroom in different ways at the discretion of the educator team and depending on student needs/interests. |
| Is my child only going to play through their day? When are they going to learn “skills”? |
Through play, we know that children develop many critical skills that will support them in their learning. While engaged in play, a child develops:
Play is an optimal tool that allows children to work through their ideas and use what they already know to deepen their understanding and further their learning. The Greater Essex County District School Board recognizes that play is children’s work. Through play, we know that children will develop many critical skills that will support them in their lifelong learning. |
