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How is my kid going to do in kindergarten?

Barbara Farland • May 8, 2024

Kindergarten Readiness: The Multisensory Solution 

While many families are celebrating the end of an era with their high school graduates, there are also those who are preparing for the very beginning of their children’s school careers. Here comes Kindergarten! 

The thought of Kindergarten may lead to a whole host of emotions. Excitement about getting older, riding the school bus, etc. Anxiety around being away from home and with new people. Even some sadness around the “little years” being over. Difficult emotions may feel even heavier when Kindergarten readiness is a concern.

A young boy is sitting on the floor drawing with crayons.

Upon entering Kindergarten, children are expected to demonstrate some basic skills in math, reading, writing, and general behavior. Can they count to 10? Can they recite the alphabet? Can they recognize and write some letters? Can they answer simple who/what/when/why questions about the stories they know? When families can’t answer “yes” with confidence to any or all of these questions, it’s probably time to seek professional intervention. 

Brightmont Academy , a one-to-one private school serving pre-K, elementary, and upper school students, offers comprehensive—and customized— Kindergarten readiness packages . Families may choose between coursework in math, reading, or handwriting, or opt for a combination of the three to help prepare their children for school success. Though each type of package boasts unique lesson plans, they all emphasize multisensory learning. 

About Multisensory Learning  

According to educational and psychological experts, there are four primary learning styles: 1) read/write, 2) visual, 3) auditory, and 4) kinesthetic (hands-on). With our culture’s reliance on reading and writing as the primary mode for learning, it’s no wonder that some children struggle and fall behind. 

Enter multisensory learning, a method that addresses all of the learning styles. At Brightmont, teachers are able to concentrate on delivering material in ways that resonate with their students’ specific learning styles, thus helping them achieve what they need to achieve before Kindergarten. At the same time, these same students develop habits and strategies that employ all of their senses in the learning process. As a result, they are better able to adjust to different educational environments and expectations—to fully participate with some competence in all aspects of school! 

Reading and writing are the traditional routes of learning in American education. But what additional learning strategies does Brightmont find effective in preparing children for Kindergarten? Here are some of the school’s favorites for both pre-elementary and early elementary students…  

Visual Learning Strategies Visual learning strategies appeal to children who learn best through their sense of sight. Visually stimulating learning tools include:

  • Graphic organizers - The purpose of graphic organizers is to show information about a given topic or topics in a visually memorable way. Graphic organizers are useful in pointing out similarities, differences, relationships, etc. Popular examples for younger students include Venn diagrams (two overlapping circles that help with making comparisons) and bubble maps. Symbols and illustrations are common features within graphic organizers for pre-K and elementary students. 

  • Symbols - Decoding is key to reading. Letters represent sounds. Words represent images and experiences. By exploring resources that rely on symbols, students begin exercising their decoding muscles. Symbols may also serve in a support role as students begin reading simple texts; symbols are gradually phased out as fluency improves. 

  • Illustrations and photos - The use of simple pictures in learning can help boost vocabulary development. For example, an illustration or photograph of a house can spark rich conversation about its color, components, inhabitants, and surroundings. In no time, students are able to make distinctions between red, blue, and other common colors, and to assign meaning to a whole new family of terms.   

  • Demonstrations - Showing versus telling is especially effective when it comes to demonstrating letter sounds. Students notice how we pucker our lips for the letter “P,” how our mouths open a certain way for “A,” and how our teeth come together for the letter “T.” Blending these sounds together to make a word becomes another opportunity for demonstrating visual cues. 

A poster for kindergarten readiness handwriting reading math.

Auditory Learning Strategies

Auditory learners process information best through their sense of hearing. Auditory learning strategies include:

  • Rhythm-based exercises - Rhythm resonates with auditory learners. When it comes to learning activities, this might mean chanting, singing, clapping, tapping, etc., to help explain concepts and get key information to stick. There are countless resources available in this vein, and Brightmont teachers are especially gifted in adapting them for the specific needs of their students.  

  • Read-alouds  - Storytelling is especially appealing to auditory learners. All kinds of educational topics—math, vocabulary, writing, you name it—can be embedded in and taught through stories. Read-alouds become even more powerful for auditory learners when paired with discussions…

  • Discussions  - In addition to listening, auditory learners like to talk. Skilled teachers will capitalize on this fact by making sure discussions are a routine part of the classroom experience. Discussions may be as simple as asking students to repeat what they heard or to answer basic who/what/when questions. Eventually, students may share their personal insights on motives, morals, etc., which sharpens their skills in text analysis. 

Kinesthetic (Hands-on) Learning Strategies

There is also a large group of people who learn best through physical activity. Known as kinesthetic or hands-on learners, these students respond well to the following strategies:

  • Manipulatives & props - Cubes, coins, sticks, and clay are common tools used within lessons employing kinesthetic teaching strategies. Such manipulatives help students explore math concepts, such as counting and sorting, in addition to growing their competencies in reading comprehension and vocabulary; regarding the latter, imagine students re-enacting what they heard with small toys or props. Simply put, hands-on activities bring curriculum to life. 

  • Simulations - Thanks to the wonders of technology, simulations are also an effective hands-on activity. Matching exercises and other online “games” with dynamic features— dragging, clicking, highlighting, drawing, etc.—are especially enjoyable for young learners.

People young and old are complex, diverse creatures, and that’s why multisensory learning is the very best option for Kindergarten readiness and education in general. It gets to the heart of how each individual learns best. It prepares students for a variety of learning endeavors. It makes for a rich school experience today and, most importantly, sets the stage for a bright academic future. Multisensory learning—it’s the Brightmont way!

A woman with short hair is smiling in a black and white photo.

Barbara Farland is an English & Social Studies instructor at Brightmont Academy in Plymouth, Minn. She holds a master’s degree in Business Communication from the University of St. Thomas and, prior to pursuing a second career in education, worked as an award-winning public relations and communications professional in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors. As a “storyteller by nature and teacher at heart,” Barbara continues to contribute to various anthologies, among other writing projects.

By Barbara Farland February 19, 2025
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Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Barrington, IL — With just a little over 50% of parents considering or having considered choosing a new school for their child, Brightmont Academy’s Barrington campus stands out as a trusted solution for personalized education. As a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, Brightmont provides a supportive and targeted learning environment that fosters both academic achievement and personal development. The Barrington campus has experienced remarkable growth, further solidifying its reputation as a top choice for families seeking individualized education. Brightmont Academy’s distinctive one-to-one model allows students to progress at their own pace, receiving individualized attention from dedicated instructors. “The Brightmont structure is different. It's very targeted. It's that one-to-one experience,” says Barb Sitkiewicz, Campus Director of the Barrington campus. “Students can go through coursework and gain much with that one-to-one.” In addition to academic support, Brightmont creates a welcoming environment where students feel valued. “Once they get to Brightmont and are appreciated and welcomed and feel part of our community, it makes it easier for them to show up consistently,” Sitkiewicz explains. This sense of belonging plays a crucial role in helping students thrive. At Brightmont, transformation extends beyond academics. Many students arrive facing significant challenges but leave with newfound confidence and capability. “You wouldn't recognize them from the first day they walked into Brightmont to now,” Sitkiewicz shares, highlighting the profound personal growth experienced by students. Parents seeking an alternative to traditional education find that Brightmont’s personalized model offers an ideal solution for students who need individualized attention to succeed. By combining flexibility, rigorous academics, and emotional support, Brightmont Academy continues to change lives and prepare students for a brighter future. Brightmont Academy is located at 400 E. Main St. in Barrington and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
high school aged boy and teacher looking at a notebook while standing
February 5, 2025
Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Birmingham, MI — Roughly 6 percent of students with disabilities are considered "twice-exceptional" (2E)—students who are gifted but also face challenges like ADHD, autism, or dyslexia. In traditional school settings, their intelligence often masks their disabilities, leaving them unsupported, or they are placed in programs that address their challenges but fail to nurture their advanced abilities. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is transforming education for 2E students by unlocking their full potential. With its innovative blend of support and challenge, Brightmont provides an environment that fosters both academic achievement and personal growth for twice-exceptional students. "Brightmont is a supportive, one-to-one learning environment that helps 2E students reach their full potential," says Annette Looser, Campus Director of the Birmingham location. "At Brightmont, we address the students' giftedness and disability at the same time in a nurturing, challenging environment." With one-to-one instruction, students progress at their own pace, mastering foundational skills while excelling in advanced areas. "At Brightmont, it is common for a second-grade 2E student to have the ability to work up to completing fifth-grade math," Looser explains. "Brightmont teachers focus on building a strong foundation in basic math concepts using visual aids and manipulatives, gradually progressing to more complex topics at a pace that matches their understanding. It is easy at Brightmont for students to closely collaborate with their teachers." Parents of twice-exceptional children often face a unique set of challenges, from ensuring their child's talents are nurtured to addressing their learning disabilities effectively. Brightmont offers a solution that addresses both needs, helping families create a path for success. "Parents who have highly intelligent students who struggle in their current school environment due to a learning disability, ADHD, or sensory integration disorder have gifted children who often fly under the radar," Looser adds. "Parents who feel that their child's full potential is not being recognized may benefit greatly from Brightmont's program." Brightmont Academy is located at 33483 Woodward Avenue in Birmingham and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
By Jamie Bachmann February 5, 2025
The Future of Education and What It Might Look Like
student looking at a book, adult looking up at child
February 2, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, continues to build its reputation for providing personalized education and exceptional support for students and families. With a mission to help students reach their full academic potential and prepare for college and career, Brightmont is proud to have already helped more than 4,000 students succeed. Brightmont remains dedicated to offering customized education that caters to each student’s unique learning needs. Many families initially seek to make their original school work, but years later, they return to Brightmont after realizing the difference it could have made earlier. “We often have families who came to us two or three years after their initial tour. One of the first things they say is, ‘I wish I had done this a few years ago.’ They knew something was off, but they wanted to give their school another try,” says Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional model has received widespread acclaim for its engaging, interactive approach. “I think people would be really surprised at what they see when they visit one of our campuses,” says Buckner. “They often envision a cold, impersonal environment when they hear ‘one-to-one,’ but what they find is a vibrant, interactive space where students are engaging with their teachers and peers. It’s not just about sitting at a computer—it’s about learning, socializing, and growing in a supportive environment.” On the third Thursday of each month, Brightmont hosts an Open House, providing a scheduled opportunity for families to meet with campus directors, tour the school, and ask questions about Brightmont’s one-to-one approach to learning. “The third Thursday of every month is a scheduled opportunity where the campus director, who is the leader of that school, has kind of cleared their calendar to make themselves available to meet with families who are interested in learning more about Brightmont and how we can support their child’s academic journey,” explained Buckner. For those who need assistance outside of these events, Brightmont is always available to provide support. “If you are in need of Brightmont services before then, we always will make time to make that happen,” adds Buckner. Brightmont Academy is located in eight states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is hosting a nationwide Open House on Thursday, February 20th. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
January 25, 2025
Private School in Atlanta and Alpharetta Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Atlanta and Alpharetta, GA — Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is celebrating the remarkable growth of its Georgia campuses. With the established success of the Alpharetta Campus and the recent opening of the Atlanta Campus, Brightmont continues to solidify its reputation as a trusted resource for families and professionals seeking individualized learning solutions. The new Atlanta Campus recently hosted its Grand Opening & Open House, drawing an enthusiastic crowd. “The Grand Opening & Open House event was a tremendous success!” said Aisha Walker, Vice President of School Development. “Families and local professionals had the opportunity to tour our beautiful new Atlanta Campus and meet Campus Director Robyn Brunson, CEO Karen Buckner, and myself. Parents were particularly excited about our personalized, one-to-one approach to learning. Additionally, local professionals—including psychologists, neurologists, educational consultants, and mental health providers—were thrilled to welcome our new campus as a resource for their clients seeking alternative and individualized learning solutions.” Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional model, coupled with rolling admissions and flexible scheduling, has quickly made its Georgia campuses stand out as inclusive, accessible options for students of all learning needs. “We have been delighted to see a strong response from families since opening our doors a couple of months ago,” said Walker. “With rolling admissions and flexible scheduling being two of our standout options, we have already begun enrolling new students. These unique offerings make our program accessible and adaptable to a wide range of student needs, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive.” The success of the Atlanta Campus is supported by the leadership of Robyn Brunson, whose dedication to personalized education has been instrumental. “Robyn Brunson brings an unwavering passion for differentiated learning and a deep commitment to helping families discover the best solutions for their children’s academic journeys,” said Walker. “Her drive to connect with the community ensures that families and local professionals alike have access to the transformative education Brightmont provides.” Brightmont Academy is located at 1161 Concord Rd SE Suite 100 in Atlanta and 1230 Upper Hembree Road, Suite 101 in Alpharetta, and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
January 19, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy recently completed its accreditation review with Cognia, a globally respected organization that evaluates schools on rigorous standards on academic excellence and student engagement. The review highlighted Brightmont’s exceptional performance, with scores significantly exceeding national averages. Brightmont achieved perfect scores of 4.0 across multiple key metrics, compared to a national average of 3.0 to 3.1. “We just came up on our annual review, and I could not be more proud of our organization and how well we scored,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy. “A third-party organization, reviewing thousands of schools across the country, and saying, ‘Yes, Brightmont, you are educating students the way we would want a school to do it’—is very validating.” Cognia’s accreditation process evaluates schools worldwide on factors such as student engagement, academic outcomes, and instructional quality. This ensures families can trust the quality of education provided and the credits earned at Brightmont. “When parents ask if we’re accredited, they typically expect a ‘yes or no’ answer,” Buckner explained. “What I think most parents mean by that is, ‘If my student earns a credit here, will that credit mean anything to another school?’ The answer is yes, but it’s important to know that accreditation goes deeper than that. You can be accredited but still have lots of areas to improve on. One of the factors that sets Brightmont apart is that we scored significantly higher than the national average in key metrics that matter to parents.” Brightmont’s unique one-to-one instructional model allows for a personalized education that prepares students for long-term success. The school’s commitment to high standards and adaptability ensures that students thrive while families gain peace of mind knowing their child’s education is prioritized. “Our mission is to prepare students for whatever the next chapter brings,” Buckner said. “Should a 10th-grade Brightmont student choose to transfer to a large public school to play the trumpet in a school band, they should be able to do that. We ensure that what students learn at Brightmont is aligned with state standards and prepares them for whatever comes next. Parents appreciate that Brightmont is not just accredited but that their child is learning something meaningful and earning grades that reflect real achievement.” Brightmont’s remarkable accreditation scores underscore its dedication to preparing students for success in every stage of life. Brightmont Academy has 20 locations across eight states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
January 15, 2025
Private School in Miami and Boca Raton Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Miami and Boca Raton, FL — Tens of thousands of students in the Southeast face major disruptions due to hurricanes, with severe storms causing damage to homes, campuses, and infrastructure. Public schools often experience prolonged closures after these events, but Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school, ensures that students stay on track with its one-to-one instructional model and flexible learning options. Brightmont’s personalized learning model enables students and families to navigate Florida’s unpredictable weather with ease. “At Brightmont, we’re fully prepared to adapt to Florida’s unpredictable weather,” says Monica Torres, Campus Director of the Miami location. “Our one-to-one model enables us to move seamlessly between in-person and online instruction. If online classes aren’t an option due to power outages, or if a specific student isn’t suited to virtual learning, we can pause classes. Once it’s safe to return to campus, students pick up right where they left off, ensuring no loss in progress.” Brightmont’s ability to tailor learning plans guarantees students don’t fall behind during weather-related closures. “Public schools often follow a fixed schedule, so when closures happen, students miss class time and may need to rush or skip content,” Torres explained. “Brightmont offers flexibility. Our students can switch to online instruction or pause learning, depending on what’s best for them. This ensures no learning is sacrificed, and families can focus on safety, knowing their child’s education won’t be disrupted.” Brightmont Academy is located at 6101 SW 76th Street in Miami and 19102 S State Road 7 in Boca Raton and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, January 16th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM at the Miami location and between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM at the Boca Raton location. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
By Barbara Farland January 15, 2025
It’s clear that students benefit immensely from a one-to-one teaching model. Students receive undivided attention, experience less distraction, and enjoy an approach that meets their precise needs. But how do teachers feel about it? Do they benefit from it, too? At Brightmont Academy , the resounding reply is “yes!” — and for many reasons. For the most part, those reasons can be summed up in three key words: customization, efficiency, and connection. Customization Many people envision education as a teacher at a blackboard explaining a concept to a classroom full of students—relying on one approach and one technique to serve the masses. But that scenario is quite different at Brightmont.  “You can adjust your teaching to how the student learns,” says Kate Doan, a Science and Math teacher at Brightmont in Mendota Heights, Minn. In other words, it’s always student first, concept second, in devising a teaching method. “For example, today I was covering how to solve a problem in math with one of my students,” adds Kate. “I was able to ask about her preferred method to work through a math problem, then I showed her how to do it in her preferred way.”
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