A Year of Wonder: First Grade at Friends School Haverford

First grade is a magical time—full of curiosity, friendships, and exciting new challenges. At Friends School Haverford, we create an environment where children feel inspired to learn, explore, and grow, both academically and socially. Our approach blends hands-on discovery with structured learning, ensuring that every child builds a strong foundation in reading, writing, math, and beyond while developing confidence and empathy along the way.

More Than Just Academics: A Whole-Child Approach

Learning isn’t just about memorizing facts—it’s about discovering new ideas, making connections, and learning how to collaborate. Through Responsive Classroom practices and The Zones of Regulation, students gain essential social-emotional skills, creating a classroom where respect, kindness, and curiosity thrive.

Each day begins with a Morning Meeting, a time for students to connect, share, and start the day on a positive note. By working together to establish classroom rules, students develop a sense of responsibility and belonging, setting the tone for a supportive learning community.

Reading, Writing, and the Joy of Expression

In first grade, language arts is an adventure! Through Fundations, a multisensory approach to literacy, students develop strong phonics and spelling skills. Guided Reading groups help them become confident, thoughtful readers, while writing projects encourage creativity across different genres—whether they’re crafting a personal memoir, composing poetry, or exploring nonfiction topics. Thought-provoking questions like “How does reading help us understand the world?” deepen their engagement and critical thinking.

Building Strong Math Thinkers

Math is more than numbers—it’s about problem-solving and discovery. Using the Math in Focus curriculum, first graders explore concepts like patterns, measurement, and place value through hands-on activities that make abstract ideas come to life. Collaborative problem-solving fosters logical reasoning, flexibility, and confidence in tackling challenges.

Exploring the World Through Science and Social Studies

From scientific investigations to cultural explorations, first graders begin to see their place in the larger world. Science lessons encourage curiosity through experiments and observations, while social studies introduce concepts of community, equity, and global citizenship. Through engaging discussions and projects, students learn to ask questions, think critically, and develop empathy for different perspectives.

A Supportive Start to a Lifetime of Learning

At Friends School Haverford, first grade is about more than just preparing for the next step—it’s about nurturing a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. By balancing academic growth with emotional and social development, we help students become not just strong learners, but also thoughtful, compassionate individuals.

Give your child the gift of a joyful, enriching first-grade experience. Learn more at Friends School Haverford.