Milpitas Christian School has transitioned their preschool program to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers provide video meetings, worksheets, and activities to help preschoolers continue developing academic and social skills at home. Parents were initially concerned about preschoolers' ability to learn remotely but have been pleased with the structure and engagement provided. The remote learning aims to prevent learning loss during the extended school closure and help children remain confident learners.

1. Press Release Milpitas Christian School 1
PRESS RELEASE
For Release:
April 23, 2020
Are Preschoolers Ready for Remote Learning?
Milpitas Christian School Continues Teaching Academics, Social, and Other Essential Skills
MILPITAS, CALIFORNIA – When schools are closed, parents suddenly need to become the “preschool
teachers” for their school-aged children. Elementary and middle school students seem comfortable
with technology and remote learning, but what about preschool-aged children? Are 2-, 3- and 4-year-
old children ready for video-based lessons at home?
“I’m pleased that our teachers are able to continue engaging and training our young students,”
explained Sheila Tanimura, Preschool Director for Milpitas Christian Preschool. “Through remote
learning, our young ones are excited about school. They enjoy seeing their teachers and interacting
with other students.”
Developing academic, social, and emotional learning (SEL) skills at home.
Ready for Zoom Remote Learning?
When the shelter-in-place first began, parents received a packet of tools and resources for their child
to use at home. These included coloring pages, worksheets, and flashcards for home study. The
detailed daily schedule suggested activities for each age level. Even when schools are closed, parents
can set up regular schedules and activities to supply the framework and expectations for their

2. Press Release Milpitas Christian School 2
children. “Consistency is important in helping young children feel secure and safe,” explained the
Harvard Graduate School of Education1
.
After a few weeks, parents and teachers agreed it was time for Milpitas Christian Preschool to add
video meetings to the remote learning experience. “This was a new experience for teachers and
parents,” shared Mrs. Tanimura. “Children are the same, but communication takes a different format.
Children may not do everything correctly, but we can give them the time and support they need to
grow into this.”
“This year has been about trying to make sure my son is on the right course for kindergarten come Fall
2020,” described April, a mom of a 4.5-year-old. “COVID-19 shut down our preschool, but Milpitas
Christian Preschool bounced back quickly. Now he can see the faces of his friends from home. His
teacher emails the parents the weekly worksheets, then spends about 45 minutes each morning going
over academic standards. This structure is helping my 4-year old work on his attention skills and gives
him interaction with people outside our house.”
Each morning, preschoolers connect with their teachers and classmates.
1
Caring for Preschoolers at Home, March 17, 2020. Retrieved from https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/20/03/caring-
preschoolers-home

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For the 2s, a nearby parent can provide guidance during the zoom meeting. With the 3s and 4s getting
more comfortable with this new way of learning, parents may be able to get back to their own work.
“There has definitely been an adjustment period,” continued April. “We are very grateful for his loving
teacher who patiently works with the class as they work to establish a whole new learning
environment. The communication from both the teacher and admin team at the preschool has helped
smooth our worries. This transition has not been easy for anyone, but having a daily check-in is very
valuable for our active little boy.”
Multi-sensory teaching through on-screen and hands-on arts and science.
Continuing Development of Critical Early Childhood Skills
Since young children grow and develop so quickly, missing even a month is huge. Missing several
months of school can reduce their skills. Research shows that students who take summer breaks lose
some of their development in reading and math during their “summer slide.” Even a ten- to twelve-
week break is the equivalent of losing one month of classroom learning2
. “Remote learning can
maintain and grow the skills they’ve already learned,” added Mrs. Tanimura. “This helps children to
become confident and competent learners.”
“I feel like the pace is good and it’s surprising how much can get done in the hour on a zoom call
(especially with almost 4-year-olds),” commented Hillary, a mom of a 3.5-year-old. “I’m pleasantly
2
The Summer Slump: Do Kids Backslide During Summer Vacation? July 24, 2017. Retrieved from
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evidence-based-living/201707/the-summer-slump-do-kids-backslide-during-
summer-vacation

4. Press Release Milpitas Christian School 4
surprised with how much you guys are able to accomplish. It’s important for me to maintain a sense of
structure so all the hard work you guys have done in the past year doesn’t come undone!”
“Milpitas Christian Preschool emphasizes educating the whole child,” elaborated Clark Gilbert, Head
of School for Milpitas Christian School. “During these crucial early years of development, our teachers
help children to grow intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. We’re excited to
see them enjoy school and develop a love for learning.”
About Milpitas Christian School
As an independent, non-denominational Christ-centered school, Milpitas Christian School welcomes
all families. Students with open hearts and spirits will find a safe environment to ask tough questions
and pursue their spiritual quest. MCS accepts students of all races and nationalities and does not
discriminate in any of its programs based on gender, race, or national origin.
Founded in 1974, MCS seeks to transform lives for Christ through excellence in education,
relationships, and service. For over 45 years, MCS has educated thousands of preschool, elementary
and middle school students on its Milpitas and San Jose, California campuses. MCS holds dual
accreditation from the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and the Western
Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
For more information or to arrange a campus tour (in-person or virtual), visit MilpitasChristian.org or
call (408) 945-6530 x11209.
###
Contact
Jim Hsia, Marketing
Email: jhsia@milpitaschristian.org
Phone: (408) 945-6530 x 13110
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