Tiny Tots Prepare for First Graduation

Dozens of children will take their first, fledgling steps toward higher education at Friday’s Tiny Tots graduation at the Community Swim Center in Hercules from 9 a.m. to noon.

Students from Tiny Tots programs at the city’s three elementary schools, Hanna Ranch, Lupine Hills and Ohlone, will walk the stage in full cap and gown attire, receive diplomas and begin the long trek toward college.

“It’s a big deal for the moms and dads,” said Ambra Bonham, recreation supervisor of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees Tiny Tots, and child care supervisor at Hanna Ranch. “The kids get excited, but the parents get to see them leave preschool and be promoted to kindergarten.”

The graduates will sing, as will performers Lori and R.J. The children will be release make-a-wish balloons outdoors (weather permitting) and then enjoy a potluck lunch.

Tiny Tots runs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon for pre-kindergartnersn, while 3-year-olds attend on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m. In addition to providing snacks, games, and arts and crafts, Tiny Tots staff members prepare their students for the academic demands of kindergarten.

“We ask kindergarten teachers at the beginning of the year how to prepare the kids, which we do for a whole year for the Monday, Wednesday and Friday group,” Bonham said. “We teach the children how to write their names and their ABCs, while we give the Tuesday/Thursday preschoolers a chance to socialize, cooperate with friends and learn colors and numbers.”

Tiny Tots activities will continue this summer in Summer Bears camps, with snacks, science experiments, music and singing lessons and reading.