Academics

Kansas standards, learning, and development

Kansas Early Learning Standards

The Kansas Early Learning Standards (KELS) provide a framework for supporting the development of children from birth through kindergarten. They outline the knowledge and skills children gain through nurturing relationships, research-based curriculum, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

KELS helps early childhood educators plan instruction, select curriculum, and partner with families to support each child's growth. Developed through the collaboration of early childhood professionals across Kansas, the standards are endorsed by the Kansas State Board of Education and the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.

• View the Kansas Early Learning Standards document that provides information and guidance to early childhood providers and teachers.

Academic focus areas

Early childhood students build foundational skills in these key areas:

1. Social-emotional skills: Developing problem-solving, self-regulation, cooperation, and positive relationships. 
2. Adaptive skills: Learning everyday independence, including dressing, feeding, toileting, grooming, and appropriate behavior in different settings. 
3. Communication: Building speech, language, and the ability to express needs, ideas, and feelings with kindness and respect.
4. Motor skills: Strengthening fine motor skills (drawing, using utensils) and gross motor skills (running, climbing, jumping, and balancing).
5. Pre-academic skills: Developing the early literacy, math, and writing skills that prepare students for future academic success.

Social-emotional development & behavior

These developmental milestones are common during the early childhood years:

• Children enjoy playing with peers and adults while learning to follow rules, share, and take turns. Games provide opportunities to practice handling winning and losing appropriately.
• As children become more independent, they may still seek reassurance from trusted adults. Some fears and separation anxiety are typical at this age. If these concerns begin to interfere with daily activities, your child's teacher can provide support and resources.
• Imaginative play is an important part of development. Children often engage in dramatic play and create elaborate make-believe stories.
• Preschoolers continue developing an understanding of fairness, cooperation, and emotional regulation as they learn to navigate social interactions.

Resources

If you have questions or believe your child may need additional support, start by contacting your child's teacher. For concerns beyond the classroom, reach out to the ELC director. If your child is experiencing social, emotional, or family-related challenges, our mental health team is available to help and can be reached through the school office.