What Your Child Learns in NC Pre-K: Building a Strong Foundation for Success

Starting school is a big step—and the NC Pre-K program is designed to help your child be ready for this exciting new chapter. This high-quality, free program focuses on more than just letters and numbers. It nurtures the whole child by developing essential skills across five key areas.

Here’s a closer look at what your child will learn in NC Pre-K and why it matters.

🧠 1. Learning How to Learn

One of the most important skills young children develop is the ability to approach new experiences with curiosity and confidence. NC Pre-K encourages children to explore, ask questions, and solve problems in creative ways. Whether it’s figuring out how a block tower stays standing or experimenting with colors in art, kids learn to be persistent and flexible thinkers. These skills help children become lifelong learners who are ready to tackle challenges in school and beyond.

💬 2. Talking, Listening & Understanding

Language development is at the heart of early learning. NC Pre-K provides a rich environment where children build their vocabulary and communication skills through conversation, storytelling, and shared reading. These experiences prepare children to understand instructions, express their thoughts clearly, and engage socially with peers and teachers. Strong language skills are critical for reading success and overall academic achievement.

💞 3. Making Friends & Managing Emotions

Social-emotional skills are just as vital as academics. NC Pre-K helps children learn how to make friends, share, take turns, and work as part of a team. Children also learn to recognize and manage their emotions, developing empathy and resilience. These abilities are crucial for building positive relationships and navigating the social world of school.

🎨 4. Exploring Numbers, Nature & Creativity

Children’s natural curiosity about the world is harnessed through hands-on activities that introduce early math, science, social studies, and the arts. From counting objects to observing plants and animals, children discover patterns and relationships that lay the groundwork for later learning. Creative expression through music, movement, and art also fosters imagination and self-confidence.

💪 5. Growing Strong & Healthy

Physical development and health are key components of NC Pre-K. The program includes activities that build coordination, balance, and fine motor skills—important for everything from playing on the playground to holding a pencil. Children also learn about healthy habits like handwashing, nutrition, and safety, supporting their overall well-being.

Why This Matters

Research shows that children who attend high-quality Pre-K programs are more likely to succeed in kindergarten, perform better on standardized tests, and graduate from high school. NC Pre-K is specially designed to support children from diverse backgrounds, including those who may face economic or social challenges. By nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically—NC Pre-K helps level the playing field and gives every child a strong start.

Ready to Give Your Child a Great Start?

If your child turns 4 by August 31, 2025, consider applying for NC Pre-K!

The program is free, offered at many sites across Lee County, and designed to set your child up for success. Applications are still being accepted for the 2025–26 school year—don’t miss out!