Raising kids who are prepared to thrive in the world can be a lot to navigate.
Whether your family’s road is straight or winding, we’re here to help you know what to expect — and find joy in the journey.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

We love partnering with students’ families to provide support and encouragement when you need it.

Contact your child’s teacher — or reach out to the office — any time you have questions about your child’s behavior, learning or experience at school.

Larned Elementary School
2104 Broadway
Larned, KS 67550
Phone:  (620) 285-2141

STAGES AND PHASES TO EXPECT

Here are a few of the behaviors, attitudes and experiences that are common among students in early childhood and primary grades.

  • Young children are very literal and typically accept adult rules as absolute and unbendable. Common behavior includes include some caution/compliance and some experimentation/opposition.

  • It isn’t unusual for some children in this phase to tell stories or stretch the truth. This can happen when boundaries between reality and imagination are still forming. Gentle questions can help them sort out wishes, imagination and real events.

  • It's not unusual for young children to be shy or nervous, sometimes without explanation.

  • In this age group, students take words literally. Sarcasm can be confusing and even hurtful to young children.

  • Kids in this age group are the ultimate observers. Appropriate language and behavior modeled by adults can be the best teacher of all.

LEARNING AT HOME

Sometimes raising kids at this age can feel like a giant puzzle to solve. Families can celebrate growth while gently guiding a young child through the ups and downs of daily life. 

  • Making up silly stories together is an easy way to use imagination and have fun!

  • Naming your everyday emotions can help a child understand what they might also be feeling. “I’m feeling a little nervous to meet my new boss today.” Or “Eating dinner together makes me feel happy.”

  • Frustrating moments can be an opportunity to brainstorm solutions together.

  • Transition times can be hard. Allowing extra time can ease the stress of arrivals and departures from home, school, childcare — even a friend’s house or favorite restaurant.

LEARNING AT SCHOOL

We love working with kids at this age. Our curriculum combines play and learning to build skills that will prepare them for success in school and in life.

  • Mixture of independent, small group and large group activities for play and learning

  • Skills for listening and being a good friend

  • Learning to solve problems and resolve disagreements with others

  • New vocabulary words to grow communication skills

  • Hands-on learning, as well as art, music and P.E. classes, to nurture new skills and interests