The Early Childhood Program provides a highly visual environment that is rich in learning opportunities and offers accessible language to all of our preschool and kindergarten students. Our goal is that young children with different hearing levels and their parents learn to communicate well with each other through using and understanding American Sign Language along with English to help parents and young children enjoy each other and their growing relationship. We believe that initial exposure to accessible language is critical for the development of future skills. Each child’s unique communication needs are continually assessed as language develops.

 

Preschool

"Nothing without joy!" is the mindset of each day in RISD Preschool. Our modern classrooms provide a happy, safe space where children ages 3-6 can explore, belong, and thrive. We believe learning through play is every child's work, and we support each child’s unique needs in a nurturing, bilingual environment.

 

Our curriculum values both American Sign Language and English, ensuring full accessibility for all students. Teachers, fluent in both languages, model effective communication, while speech and language services are also available. We work closely with families through home visits, field trips, emails, workshops, and a weekly blog to foster optimal development. With ongoing observation and assessments, our dedicated staff nurtures growth in language, motor skills, and creativity.

 

Kindergarten

Our full-day Kindergarten program is for children ages 6-7; serves as a bridge to elementary school, fostering partnerships between families and schools to build a strong community of support.

 

Each child brings unique developmental and cultural experiences, and our curriculum addresses all areas of development—social, emotional, physical, and intellectual—through hands-on, experiential learning. Students explore language and literacy, math, science, social studies, art, and drama, while engaging in activities like ASL story time, library visits, gym, art classes, Deaf studies, and formal ASL instruction.

 

We focus on promoting independence, collaboration, and self-awareness. Children develop skills to work in groups, complete tasks, and explore new ideas in a safe, supportive environment.