Lower School | Academics | Hammond School | Columbia, South Carolina

Four years old. Nearly 90% brilliant. 

The brain is 90% developed by age five. That's why we start thinking ahead at age four.

By the time they blow out five candles, children's brains are almost fully developed. That's quite a feat. And so is giving them the right start, in the right place, surrounded by the love and care they need to be successful. At Hammond, we're always thinking ahead. We're meeting four year olds where they're growing fastest. Because early years aren't just the beginning; they're the foundation.

The right start makes all the difference. Here's Hammond's Four-Point Difference.


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1. Teachers Who Know and Care

Our teachers don’t just have degrees, many have master’s degrees, and they bring both expertise and heart to each day. Early intervention services help ensure every child gets exactly the support they need to be successful. Together, the pre-kindergarten team helps build a lasting foundation.

2. Thinking Ahead, Every Day

We know that engaging lessons in the fundamentals are critical to a child's success, but we also know that building 21st century skills like critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication can be formed at a young age. We make sure they're ready for the next step, and every step after that.

3. Co-curricular Classes that Engage the Mind, Body, and Imagination

From music, dance, and visual arts to PE, Spanish, nature exploration with our naturalist in residence, and hands-on discovery in the Wonder Lab, our co-curricular classes give children a chance to explore, experiment, and grow in countless ways. 

4. A Whole-School Family

Learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. School-wide activities, older students who mentor, and support from teachers and coaches create a vibrant community where every child is supported. At Hammond, we know that pre-kindergarten is one of the most important steps in a child's learning journey. It shapes not just the years here, but everything that comes after.

Every bright future has to start somewhere—and we think pre-kindergarten is the smartest choice.


 

Pre-kindergarten: The SMART START.

THIS IS HAMMOND THINKING AHEAD — At Hammond, we know that pre-kindergarten is one of the most important steps in a child’s learning journey. It’s where curiosity sparks, confidence grows, and a love of discovery begins...all in a place where every child supported, and ready to explore.. — THIS IS HAMMOND.

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