New York - The Direct Archdiocesan District Office of Education of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has recently published a Curriculum for Kindergarten for the teaching of Greek as a second language to children of this age group.

The need for the creation of a uniform course of study for the kindergarten classes of the parochial day and afternoon schools has become evident in the last decade as more and more programs for early childhood education have emerged in parishes across the country. 

Based on the developmental needs and the learning abilities of the kindergarten child, the Kindergarten Curriculum places an emphasis on oral communication and, at the same time, aims at instilling in the young learners a sense of pride, love, and respect for the Greek cultural heritage and the Christian Orthodox Faith.

The Kindergarten Curriculum is divided into 13 units, one of which refers to major religious holidays and customs. Each unit consists of the following: the general goal, the objective of each lesson, recommended activities and materials, basic vocabulary, phrases for oral communication practice, and a vast list of resources (songs, poems, stories, and games) to help teachers introduce each unit. 

According to Maria Makedon, director of the Direct Archdiocesan District Office of Education, “The Curriculum is a 'guide' and, therefore, teachers may adapt it to their student needs and abilities. Teachers may use different resources as long as the general goal and the learning objectives of each lesson are achieved.”

The publication of the Kindergarten Curriculum was made possible due to a generous grant from the “Stavros S. Niarchos” Foundation and is offered gratis to all schools. 

For information and copies, please contact the Direct Archdiocesan District Office of Education. Telephone: (212) 570-3553, or (212) 570-3554 - Fax: (212) 774-0248.