A Day in the Life of Little Branches Every day in Little Branches is a fresh, exciting adventure. As the clock strikes 11 a.m., our 4K students head off to enjoy recess and lunch with older students. This unique opportunity to mingle with their peers in the cafeteria allows them to practice essential social skills while getting a taste of what it’s like to eat lunch at school, just like the bigger kids! The bonds they form during this time are nothing short of heartwarming—watching the older students interact with their younger peers is truly special.
A Perfect Balance of Learning and Play What sets Little Branches apart is the perfect balance between academics, faith, and fun. The students not only engage in free play, but they also expand their learning opportunities by focusing on the basics that will prepare them for kindergarten. Each day, we introduce concepts such as letters, numbers, and writing, all through engaging activities and hands-on learning. This extended school day gives our little learners the extra time they need to solidify these important skills, helping them build a solid academic foundation. But it’s not all about academics. Every day in Little Branches, the students are immersed in faith-based learning. We explore the core teachings of Christianity, learning how God created the world, us, animals, and plants. During our religion time, students dive into prayers like the “Our Father” and the “Hail Mary,” discovering the importance of reverent behavior, especially as we participate in the school’s Friday Adoration time.
Social Development Through Special Classes One of the highlights of Little Branches is the chance for our students to explore various “special” classes. Whether it’s music, gym, library, Spanish, or art, each day brings a new opportunity for the children to tap into their creativity, build new skills, and discover hidden talents. It’s amazing to watch the students’ confidence grow as they try new things and express themselves in different ways.
Rest and Reflection After all the excitement, the children enjoy a well-deserved rest period. For about an hour and a half, our little ones take time to relax, whether it’s through napping or quietly playing with toys. This quiet time helps them recharge for the rest of their afternoon adventures, ensuring they’re ready for the next part of their day.
The Little Branches Philosophy As the teacher in Little Branches, I don’t see myself as just an educator. I am a guide—one who helps these young students learn not only about academics, but about the world around them, about faith, and about themselves. The bonds we form during these precious extra hours together are so meaningful, and it’s a privilege to watch the students grow, learn, and discover who they are as individuals.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is seeing the friendships blossom as the children spend more time with each other. The social skills they develop in Little Branches are invaluable. By the end of the day, the children are not only more academically prepared, but they are also emotionally enriched, with strong friendships and a deeper understanding of the world and their faith.
As a teacher, being part of Little Branches has been an absolute blessing. Working with 4K students is my calling, and every moment spent with them brings joy. I get to be a part of their early educational journey, helping them take the first steps in their academic and spiritual lives. It’s a truly special time, and I’m excited to see what the rest of the year holds for our Little Branches learners.
At St. Ann School, we are committed to fostering the growth of each child in every aspect of their lives—academically, socially, and spiritually. Little Branches is where that growth begins. It’s where little hearts and minds are nurtured, friendships are formed, and faith is instilled, all while having fun and making memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’d like to learn more about Little Branches, including details on cost and how to enroll, please visit our webpage HERE. We can’t wait to see how these little branches continue to grow!