Preschool & Kindergarten

Introduction to Our Early Childhood Program

Our Early Childhood Program offers a unique, bilingual, play-based, and project-oriented approach that immerses children in both German and English from their first day with us, regardless of their prior language knowledge. We embrace children’s natural curiosity and creativity, providing opportunities for hands-on exploration, discovery, and social-emotional growth within a supportive, multilingual environment. By balancing free play with guided activities, we foster a lifelong love of learning and support the holistic development of each child.

Through thematic projects inspired by seasons, diverse cultural events, and children's interests, we integrate multiple disciplines—such as art, science, math, and language—allowing for rich, interconnected learning experiences. Our experienced, bilingual educators use techniques like dialogic reading, role-playing, and collaborative games to cultivate foundational language skills in both German and English, setting students up for both academic and social success. Our aim is to instill confidence, curiosity, and the joy of learning as they prepare for their next steps with a strong sense of self and community.

Daily Rhythm

The school day runs from 8:30am to 2:15pm (drop-off starts at 8:00am when school opens each day). Students have a daily Morgenkreis (morning circle), play-based learning time, project-based learning time, outdoor exploration time, lunch, and snack. Preschool students nap in the afternoon after lunch, Kindergarten students do not. Optional Extended Day until 4:30pm or 6:00pm is available. Kindergarten students participate in the Elementary School Extended Day program.



Our Values In Action

Social Competence

Children develop empathy, trust, and collaboration skills as they learn to express themselves and form healthy relationships.

Well-Roundedness

Our program promotes a strong sense of identity and belonging through inquiry-based play and exploration.

Cultural Enrichment

We engage students with international traditions, enriching their learning experience within a global context.

Special Field Trips and Experiences

Preschoolers engage in interactive, on-campus experiences tailored to their developmental stages, fostering curiosity and discovery in a safe and familiar setting.

Kindergarteners take their first steps into the community through thoughtfully designed field trips that build confidence and independence. From navigating public transportation to exploring nature and visiting places like museums, fire stations, and local businesses, these adventures connect classroom learning to the real world, broadening their horizons and nurturing a love for discovery.

Early Childhood Program Highlights

Hear from Parents in the Early Childhood Program

"We chose EBGIS preschool to give our daughter the best chance of becoming fully bilingual, with all the documented benefits that brings. As a family that doesn’t speak German at home, it’s been incredible to see her comprehension grow – she now asks for her bedtime stories in German! We’ve also loved seeing the school celebrate both familiar and new holidays and cultural traditions. I love that she’s becoming a little global citizen, and I hope this education allows her to study or work wherever she wants."

– Jessica G., EBGIS Preschool Parent

"The EBGIS kindergarten experience was exactly what any parent would dream up for their kids: warm and empathetic teachers, an interesting program, play, music, and lots of social and emotional learning. I wouldn’t change a thing! We were so happy that our daughter got to experience this year preparing for first grade with the support of Ingrid and her team."

– Silva S-B, EBGIS Kindergarten Parent

Hear From Teachers in the Early Childhood Program

"I started as a substitute teacher at EBGIS and was immediately drawn to the warmth of the community and the engaging, bilingual approach to education. The daily experience here is so inspiring that I knew I wanted to be part of it full-time. Now, as a dedicated teacher, I pour my heart into nurturing our students every day, supporting their growth and watching them thrive."

– Antwanette Adger, Early Childhood Teacher

"I love working here. It feels like a second home to me. The German language, cultural diversity, and the chance to celebrate various festivals enrich my everyday life in a special way. I didn’t have these experiences in Germany, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that values diversity and togetherness so much."

– Denise Tigges, Kindergarten Teacher