Understanding Transitional Kindergarten: A Developmentally Appropriate Bridge Between Preschool and Kindergarten

UFS Editorial
Apr 17
3 min read

Many parents find themselves at a crossroads when their child is approaching age five, especially if their birthday falls close to the kindergarten cutoff date. Preschool may no longer feel like quite enough, yet traditional kindergarten might seem a big leap for a child who still thrives on movement, curiosity, and play.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is designed specifically for these in-between years. It offers children more time to develop the social, emotional, and foundational academic skills they’ll need to succeed in school —without rushing them into a model that may not yet match their developmental readiness.

What Is Transitional Kindergarten?

Transitional Kindergarten is an intentional, year-long program designed for older four-year-olds and young five-year-olds who may not be ready for the demands and rhythm of a traditional classroom.

At our school, United Friends School, TK offers children the gift of time—time to grow, explore, and develop at their own pace. Grounded in a project-based and play-based approach, our TK program nurtures foundational skills, supports the early development of academic abilities, and encourages joyful discovery. Friends build confidence and a love of learning in a warm, inclusive environment that supports their social, emotional, and intellectual growth.

This introduces early academic concepts in ways that reflect how young children learn best—through hands-on exploration, open-ended play, and meaningful projects. These experiences are built upon strong relationships with teachers and peers, allowing children to thrive in ways that feel natural and joyful.

Rooted in the values of Quaker education, our program nurtures the whole child and honors their individual pace, supporting each child in becoming confident, curious, and deeply engaged in the world around them.

What Makes TK at United Friends School So Special

A Full-Day Program That Feels Just Right

At United Friends School, our full-day Transitional Kindergarten program (Monday–Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) goes beyond academics; it nurtures the whole child in a supportive and engaging environment.

Foundational Skills Through Developmentally Aligned Curriculum

By using trusted and age-appropriate learning tools like Learning Without Tears, along with hands-on math activities, children build a strong academic foundation for reading, writing, and problem-solving—all through enjoyable and meaningful experiences.

Nature-Based Learning

Our TK students don’t just learn about the world—they experience it. Through outdoor exploration and an immersive creek study, children connect with nature, foster curiosity, and develop a deep sense of stewardship for the environment around them.

Rooted in Quaker Values

Guided by Quaker principles—simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship—UFS creates a calm, respectful space where each child feels seen, valued, and supported. These values shape not just what we teach, but how we teach, creating a culture of kindness and inclusion.

Whole-Child Development

Social-emotional growth is just as important as academics in TK. Children learn to manage emotions, express themselves, build friendships, and solve problems peacefully. These skills build a strong emotional foundation for the rest of their schooling and life.

The Gift of a Strong Start

Transitional Kindergarten at UFS is about preparing the whole child for the journey ahead. Children leave the program confident, curious, and ready to take on Kindergarten with excitement and resilience.

Let your child take their first step into learning in a space where they are free to explore, grow, and shine. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, joyful, and developmentally appropriate program for your young learner, we invite you to discover the magic of TK at United Friends School.

You're Invited: Join Us for Our Open House on May 6th

We’d love to welcome you to United Friends School and show you how our Transitional Kindergarten program—and our whole school—nurtures a lifelong love of learning.

Come explore our campus, connect with our educators, and see how we support every child’s growth in a caring and engaged community.

📍 Location: United Friends School 1018 W Broad Street Quakertown, PA

Don't forget to RSVP and select a time slot based on your child’s grade level:

🕒 Schedule:

Preschool and Playgroup: 9:30 AM – 10:15 AM
Transitional Kindergarten through 3rd Grade: 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM
Upper Elementary (4th–5th Grade): 12:00 PM – 1:15 PM
Middle School (6th–8th Grade): 1:30 PM – 2:45 PM

Please note that this event is for adults only.