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A toddler happily explaining to her mother the art activity during her IB PYP End-of-Unit Celebration

When Should My Child Start the IB Program? What Parents Need to Know About PYP

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The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognized educational framework renowned for its rigorous academic standards and holistic approach to student development. Highly regarded by over 4,500 universities in more than 110 countries and territories, the IB program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in higher education and beyond. 

As interest in IB continues to grow, many parents find themselves considering when to begin. Should children start with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in their early and elementary years, or is it just as beneficial to wait until later? In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of early exposure to the IB philosophy and offer guidance on identifying a strong PYP school. 

What is the IB PYP? 

The IB offers a continuum of international education through a series of challenging, high-quality educational programmes to students aged 3 to 19. The IB PYP marks the start of a lifelong journey of learning. It develops caring and culturally aware children aged 3–12 to become active participants in their own learning. 

The PYP is future-focused: instead of emphasizing static knowledge, it prepares students to thrive in a changing and unpredictable world. Embedded within the framework is the recognition of the importance of fostering an individual’s agency. 

For example, during Student-Led Conferences, an integral part of the PYP assessment process, students exercise their self-efficacy by leading every stage, from preparing work samples and setting the agenda to reflecting on feedback from parents. The shift from passive recipients to active participants enables them to continually grow, adapt, and contribute beyond school. 

An international baccalaureate primary years program student learning numbers

The International Baccalaureate Primary School Program promotes a rich learning experience.

How PYP Is Beneficial

Choosing the IB PYP is not just an investment in a child’s early education. It’s a thoughtful step toward their long-term academic and personal development.

How PYP Shapes Early Learning

  • Play-based Learning That Meets Developmental Needs: The PYP recognizes the unique needs of early learners and the importance of play as the vehicle of inquiry. Through play, children actively create meaning from their interactions with people and their environments, which will be revisited and revised in light of new experiences and further learning. 
  • Fostering Curiosity, Independence, and Confidence: Unlike traditional instruction where learning is primarily teacher-directed, the PYP’s inquiry-based and student-centered approach nurtures their natural curiosity, encouraging students to ask questions and seek answers independently.
  • Learning Languages in The PYP: The PYP welcomes all languages of the child, family, and community, and PYP schools often offer a language in addition to the language of instruction. For example, at Tessa International School, we offer bilingual immersion education in Spanish, French, and Mandarin. A multilingual approach supports both the cognitive development and maintenance of cultural identity for each learner. 

How PYP Supports Lifelong Success

  • Smooth Transition Within the IB Continuum: The PYP prepares students for the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP), ensuring a coherent educational experience that contributes to long-term academic success.
  • Building IB Learner Profile Since Young: The Learner Profile defines 10 attributes that IB aims to develop in all students throughout their educational journey, regardless of age or program. Starting as early as the PYP, these values are adapted to be relevant to students’ every developmental stage, preparing them to be world citizens.
  • Preparation for Global Environments: Not only is the IB a globally recognized curriculum that allows for student mobility, but the program also explicitly equips students with the international-mindedness to thrive in diverse cultural and educational settings.
  • Equipping Students for an Evolving Future: The PYP’s transdisciplinary approach enables students to apply knowledge across various contexts with strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills prepare students to confidently face a more competitive career landscape and navigate the complexities of an increasingly interconnected world.

 

Debunking Misconceptions About the PYP

Will PYP be too “loose” or unstructured? 

No. The PYP is a well-structured curriculum framework designed to be dynamic and responsive for children in their formative years, who need room to explore, inquire, and develop at their own pace. It provides the necessary guidance and rigor–especially through its concept-based inquiry and set transdisciplinary themes–while allowing educators to tailor learning experiences to truly meet young learners where they are. It is an intentional balance of structure and freedom to support developmentally appropriate learning.

Is PYP academically rigorous? 

Yes. The PYP challenges students to think deeply and understand complex concepts, promoting high academic standards.

  1. A 2024 longitudinal study conducted in South Korea showed that students attending IB PYP schools exhibited superior academic achievement and motivation in language development and mathematics than non-IB PYP students. 
  2. A 2014 study conducted in Singapore and Australia showed that children developed literacy, school readiness, and learning skills at similar or higher levels. 
  3. PYP students outperformed non-IB students in mathematics, reading, and writing, according to a global study on International Schools’ Assessment for the years 2009-2011. 

Does PYP only benefit international students? 

No. The PYP is designed for all learners, regardless of nationality or location. Its culturally inclusive framework and emphasis on global awareness are valuable for children in any community. More importantly, whether they plan to move abroad or not, intercultural understanding and adaptability are essential skills for everyone in increasingly globalized societies. 

Students across grade levels gather to celebrate the cultural diversity during UN Day at Tessa.

At Tessa, children are introduced to other languages and cultures in order to enhance their cultural awareness; they are bilingual and culturally adaptable.

What to Look for in a Strong PYP School

When evaluating a PYP school, consider the following:

  • IB Accreditation and Quality Faculty: Ensure the school is authorized by the IB and employs trained educators proficient in the PYP framework.
  • Visible Student Agency: Look for classrooms where students have an active voice in their learning, demonstrating ownership and initiative. Find more examples in Tessa International School’s End-of-Unit projects. 
  • Integrated Units of Inquiry: Effective PYP schools should implement transdisciplinary units that connect learning to real-world contexts.
  • Social-Emotional Learning: A strong PYP school supports the whole child physically, intellectually, and social-emotionally.   

Tessa International School as An IB World School

Tessa is officially authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) as an IB World School offering the PYP. This dynamic and goal-oriented framework creates many academic and social-emotional growth opportunities for our students, preparing them to reach their fullest potential and navigate an ever-changing world with bilingual proficiency, academic excellence, and individual happiness. 

Students holding the International Baccalaureate logo, celebrating Tessa International School's accreditation as an IB World School offering the Primary Year Programme

As an IB world school, Tessa International School develops inquiring, knowledgeable and caring children of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can my child transition easily from PYP to another curriculum later?

Yes. According to the IBO, “the PYP is flexible enough to accommodate the demands of most national or local curriculums.” Not only does the PYP conveys a broad range of knowledge, concepts, and skills that overlap with other school frameworks, but the transdisciplinary framework fosters the ability in children to transfer knowledge to new contexts. This cognitive ability, along with other transferable skills like critical thinking and adaptability, supports smooth and confident transitions between curricula.

Q: Is Tessa International School’s IB PYP program qualified? 

Tessa International School is an authorized IB World School, meeting the rigorous standards set by the International Baccalaureate Organization. Read more about our accreditations here. 

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

 

Young students in Tessa International School's nursery school program engage in their Spanish immersion class.

Can My Child Handle Two Languages? Yes—and Here’s Why It’s Great for Them

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Raising a bilingual child is an inspiring journey that combines both excitement and thoughtful considerations. “Will early bilingualism slow down their speech? Will they mix up the languages and get confused?” These common questions come from your care and love. 

Fortunately, supported by decades of research, the encouraging news is this: your child is naturally equipped to acquire more than one language from an early age, and with the right environment, that ability blossoms with ease and excitement. Keep reading to learn why early bilingualism is a remarkable gift that nurtures your child’s long-term development.

Our Spanish Nursery teacher guides toddlers in language learning.

Learning a second language earlier and for a longer period is most likely to lead to proficiency.

Why Young Brains Thrive on Bilingualism (or Multilingualism)

Natural Language Learners

Early childhood is a prime period when children’s brains are especially receptive to learning languages. Research indicates that infants as early as 20 months can recognize and differentiate between two languages for efficient comprehension. This innate ability to absorb the sounds, patterns, and grammatical structures of multiple languages happens effortlessly during the early years, but it gradually diminishes as children grow older. A study from cognitive scientists at MIT shows that learners who begin acquiring a second language after the age of 10 are less likely to reach native-like proficiency. This reinforces the importance of beginning bilingual education as early as possible. 

Cognitive Advantages

Children exposed to two languages from an early age often show enhanced cognitive flexibility and executive functioning. Skills such as attention control, problem-solving, and task switching develop through the brain’s ongoing management of multiple linguistic systems. More importantly, these benefits don’t disappear with age, they continue to support academic performance and real-world functioning well into adulthood.

Language Confusions or Delays? No! 

Numerous research has debunked this common misconception that learning two languages might lead to confusion or delay. In fact, children achieve the same milestones in language development at a similar pace as monolingual children, provided they receive consistent and meaningful exposure to both languages. 

Two French Track toddlers actively engage in bilingual learning.

Early exposure to another language ignites children’s learning.

The Long-Term Benefits of Bilingualism

Academic Achievement

Bilingualism enhances brain function in ways that promote academic success. The analytical and reasoning skills fostered by dual-language learning contribute to higher performance, especially in reading comprehension and mathematical problem-solving.

Enhanced Communication Skills

Bilingual individuals often develop superior communication skills, including the ability to interpret non-verbal cues and adapt language use based on context. These skills are invaluable in both personal and professional settings. 

Cultural Awareness

Exposure to more than one language also means exposure to more than one culture. Bilingual children are more likely to appreciate cultural diversity, show empathy, and engage with others from different backgrounds. In today’s interconnected world, these traits are as essential as academic success. Read more about how to cultivate global awareness here. 

Future Opportunities

The professional advantages of bilingualism are clear. A 2019 U.S. employer survey revealed that 9 out of 10 companies rely on employees who speak languages other than English. Over half reported that the demand for bilingual and multilingual professionals would rise significantly within the next five years, particularly in sectors related to business development and global expansion.

How Tessa International School’s Nursery Program Foster Bilingualism

At Tessa International School, we offer world-class bilingual education for ages 2-10, offering immersion tracks in French, Spanish, and Mandarin. Unlike other daycare programs, our nursery program is uniquely designed to introduce a second language through joyful, play-based learning that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence. 

  • A Bilingual Program: As highlighted above, the earlier children start with a second language, the more naturally they acquire it. Our nursery students benefit from daily exposure to two languages in meaningful contexts, helping them grow into confident communicators and culturally aware individuals.
  • A World-Class Education: Guided by the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB), our curriculum promotes inquiry-based learning. Our “roadmap” allows for exploration and flexibility, empowering even our youngest learners to follow their curiosity, take initiative, and begin developing the habits of lifelong learning. 
  • A Play-Based Curriculum: Play is more than just fun—it’s a vital part of how young children learn and make sense of the world. Our curriculum blends purposeful activities with space for free exploration, supporting language growth and aligning with one of the three foundational pillars of our school: Happiness. You can download our Nursery Curriculum here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will learning two languages confuse my child or delay their speech?

This is one of the most common concerns among parents, but research has consistently shown that bilingual children meet language milestones at a similar pace as their monolingual peers. As long as they are exposed consistently to both languages in meaningful contexts, children are capable of learning two languages without confusion or delay.

Q: What are the benefits of bilingual education?

Bilingualism offers more than just the ability to speak two languages. It enhances cognitive development, supports academic success, and improves communication skills. Bilingual individuals also tend to develop greater cultural empathy and are better prepared for global career opportunities later in life.

Q: How does Tessa International School support early bilingual development?

At Tessa, our nursery program introduces children as young as 20 months old to a second language (French, Spanish, or Mandarin). Designed for young children, our approach blends structured inquiry with play-based exploration, all grounded in the global-renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. 

 

Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

 

A parent happily accessing children's literacy skills

How Early Literacy Comes to Life in an Immersion Classroom at Tessa International School

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This is the second post of our Literacy Progression Series. Read the previous post here.

 

If early literacy begins with sound, play, and connection, what does that actually look like in an immersion classroom?

At Tessa, we intentionally design learning experiences that help children build the foundation for reading and writing in two (or more) languages. We don’t teach literacy skills in isolation. Instead, we nurture them through meaningful, inquiry-based units delivered entirely in Spanish, French, or Mandarin, at a time when the brain is naturally wired for language acquisition.

Literacy Through Play and Inquiry

In our Nursery, Preschool, and Kindergarten classrooms, literacy is woven into every part of the day, from storytelling and singing to block building and dramatic play.

Because our program is rooted in inquiry, children build early literacy as they explore big ideas and concepts like:

  • Self-expression through play and art: Children study paintings, respond with movement or words, and create their own representations using drawings, symbols, and language to express ideas. 
  • Making meaning through science and communication: Children make predictions, test their ideas, and document their thinking using drawings, invented spelling, and early writing.
Our French preschool teacher explains how we express ourselves through art.

For example, when they study paintings, students at Tessa are encouraged to use language to interpret and communicate their understanding.

Learning in Context, Not in Isolation

Children develop stronger literacy skills when those skills are embedded in real experiences. That’s why early literacy at Tessa happens through songs, conversations, drawing, inquiry, and meaningful writing opportunities.

For example:

  • A child exploring a painting might say how it makes them feel, then write the first sound they hear in that feeling word.
  • While experimenting with floating and sinking, they might use drawings to record their ideas or label objects using their own writing system.
  • During shared storytelling, they begin to predict, retell, and build vocabulary, all of which are critical pre-reading behaviors.

These moments strengthen phonological awareness, vocabulary, symbolic understanding, and oral language. These are the essential building blocks for reading and writing in any language.

Language Drives Literacy

In an immersion classroom, the target language is the lens through which children explore these ideas. They’re not just learning a language. They’re learning through language.

Our children:

  • Build vocabulary naturally through play, conversations, and storytelling
  • Develop sound awareness by hearing songs, rhymes, and expressive speech
  • Begin to represent their thinking through marks, drawings, and letters, first in the target language and then across languages

In all of these experiences, literacy isn’t a subject. It’s a way of thinking and expressing. Children begin to notice print in their environment, use the target language to explain their drawings or ideas, and experiment with writing through scribbling, mark-making, and early letter forms. These are the first steps in becoming confident communicators who express themselves across languages and in many different ways.

 

In our next post, we will explore how children begin writing in two languages and how phonological awareness, vocabulary, and symbolic thinking come together to support that exciting process.

 

Sources & Further Reading

  • Roskos, K., Christie, J. F., & Richgels, D. J. (2009). Play and Literacy in Early Childhood: Research from Multiple Perspectives (2nd ed.). Routledge.
  • National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (2019). Developmentally Appropriate Practice Position Statement.
  • Espinosa, L. M. (2015). Getting it Right for Young Children from Diverse Backgrounds: Applying Research to Improve Practice with a Focus on Dual Language Learners. Pearson.
  • Tabors, P. O. (2008). One Child, Two Languages: A Guide for Early Childhood Educators of Children Learning English as a Second Language (2nd ed.).
  • Genesee, F. & Nicoladis, E. (2007). Bilingual First Language Acquisition. In E. Hoff & M. Shatz (Eds.), Handbook of Language Development.
A preschool teacher is teaching how to express different emotions in Mandarin.

How to Support Your Child’s Social-Emotional Health

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In today’s conversations around health and safety in child care, we acknowledge not only reducing or eliminating physical threats to our children’s well-being but also promoting their social-emotional health. Social-emotional health is the ability to understand and manage emotions, form secure social connections and relationships, and engage with the world around us. 

A child’s social and emotional health directly influences their ability to grow, learn, and lead a fulfilling life. Below, we explore how parents can actively support their child’s social-emotional development, and how Tessa International School lays the foundation for confident, compassionate, and resilient individuals.

A preschool teacher is teaching how to express different emotions in Mandarin as part of social-emotional learning at Tessa.

It’s our responsibility to provide our children with positive social-emotional learning experience.

5 Ways to Support Children’s Social-Emotional Health for Parents

Keep track of how your child is doing.

Pay attention to changes in your child’s behavior, mood, or energy levels. These often provide clues to their emotional state, even when they’re too young to articulate their feelings. Regularly checking in allows you to stay attuned to their needs and respond proactively.

Encourage your child. 

Positive reinforcement builds confidence and resilience. Celebrate your child’s efforts—no matter how small—to help them feel valued and capable.

At Tessa International School, our assessment culture emphasizes individual strengths. Through positive assessment, we aim to cultivate a growth mindset and reinforce each child’s belief in their own potential.

Help your child recognize emotions and address anxiety. 

Support your child in identifying and naming their emotions. This is the first step toward learning how to manage them. Create a safe space to talk about their feelings and introduce calming techniques, like deep breathing or drawing, to help them navigate anxiety.

Share important information with your child’s teacher. 

Teachers are key partners in your child’s growth. By sharing insights into your child’s personality, routines, or any recent life events, you enable teachers to better support their emotional and social development throughout the school day.

Don’t hesitate to seek support! 

Seeking support is a sign of strength and care. Connecting with school counselors, pediatricians, or child development professionals can provide guidance tailored to your child’s needs. 

How Tessa International School Ensures Children’s Social-Emotional Health

At Tessa International School, we nurture the whole child. With happiness as one of the three pillars in our school’s mission, we prioritize emotional well-being alongside academic growth. Therefore, Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is integrated into every aspect of school life, helping students gain emotional intelligence and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Why Social and Emotional Learning Matters in Education

The benefits of SEL are well-researched, with research consistently demonstrating that promoting SEL yields positive outcomes for students, adults, and school communities:

Tessa International School’s SEL Approach: RULER

To design and implement our SEL techniques, Tessa International School applies the RULER model, developed by Yale University’s Center for Emotional Intelligence. This research-backed method teaches students to:

  • Recognizing emotions in oneself and other people; 
  • Understanding the causes and consequences of those emotions; 
  • Labeling emotions with precise words; 
  • Expressing emotions; 
  • Regulating emotions.
Teachers at Tessa International School frequently have professional training on social-emotional learning model, RULER.

At Tessa, we prioritize students’ social-emotional development alongside their academic progress.

RULER is an approach, as opposed to a program. In this light, it is about infusing the principles of emotional intelligence into everything that happens in and out of our school, from how the leaders lead, to how the teachers teach, to how students learn, to how families parent. 

Practice of RULER Approach in Tessa International School’s Curriculum

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, we integrate the practice of RULER with our Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework. 

  1. IB Learner Profile: The PYP encourages ten attributes—including being caring, principled, balanced, and open-minded—that promote emotional awareness and social confidence. These traits are taught explicitly and modeled across the school day.
  2. Learner Agency: Unlike conventional curriculums dictating exactly when, where, and how a student should carry out an activity, the PYP allows learners a degree of freedom to make meaningful choices on their own. From toddlers choosing their learning center during free play to older students leading their own conferences, the self-effacy enables students to develop their social-emotional skills. 
  3. Transdisciplinary Themes: The PYP is a transdisciplinary curriculum framework that offers authentic learning experiences. Through inquiry-based learning connected to real-life contexts, our students explore issues like identity, relationships, and community, enhancing their social understanding and emotional intelligence across traditional subject borders.

 

Recognizing the significant impact of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) on students’ well-being and academic success, we aim to create a nurturing environment where children can develop positive relationships and essential self-management skills. Through this evidence-based approach, our goal is to help every child feel safe, supported, and happy. Parents and caregivers are essential collaborators in this journey. By fostering these skills early in life, these qualities empower children to grow into emotionally intelligent, socially responsible, and well-rounded individuals.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the signs that my child may be struggling emotionally?

Children often express emotional challenges through behavior. Common signs include sudden mood swings, withdrawal from social interactions, changes in sleep or appetite, frequent tantrums, or difficulty concentrating. If these behaviors persist or interfere with daily activities, it may be beneficial to consult with a pediatrician or child psychologist for professional guidance. ​

Q: How can I support my child’s social-emotional development at home?

Supporting your child’s social-emotional growth at home can start with:

  • Observing changes in your child’s behaviour, mood, or energy level to stay attuned to their emotional needs. 
  • Offering positive reinforcement to build their confidence and resilience. 
  • Encouraging open conversations about feelings in a safe environment. 
  • Modeling healthy emotional responses.
  • Teaching coping strategies like deep breathing or drawing. 

Q: How does Tessa International School support social-emotional learning? 

At Tessa, we integrate Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into every aspect of school life. Using the evidence-based RULER approach from Yale University, our educators teach students to recognize, understand, label, express, and regulate emotions. Combined with our International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, we foster a welcoming environment where students develop well-rounded, social-emotionally healthy learners.

 

Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

 

Two happy French track Kindergarteners at Tessa International School

Why Kindergarten is Important

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Does a good Kindergarten experience matter? The answer is yes. A 2010 study conducted by Harvard University economist John Friedman found that a strong Kindergarten education significantly impacts an individual’s academic success and overall life achievements. Typically, children begin Kindergarten between the ages of 4 and 6. Regardless of whether they have prior preschool experience or not, this crucial transitional year sets the foundation for learning and development, establishing skills and habits necessary for early school success, academic achievement, and overall development. 

Three French Track Kindergarteners at Tessa International School are developing their bilingual skills with the teacher.

A year in kindergarten can nurture well-rounded individuals ready for lifelong learning.

Benefits of Kindergarten

Kindergarten offers a range of age-appropriate and engaging experiences often unavailable at home or in daycare centers, exposing students to developmentally beneficial opportunities. 

Social and Emotional Learning

Kindergarten acts as a bridge between the secure home environment and the outside world. It encourages young learners to interact with peers and teachers while practicing essential social and emotional intelligence skills. These foundational skills continue to be critical as children grow and navigate later stages of life positively and confidently.

Language Learning and Communication Skills

Kindergarten immerses children to a more language-rich environment that enhances their vocabulary and conversation abilities. Children expand their language skills naturally through regular verbal interactions, learning new songs, and everyday story time. 

At Tessa International School, all students from PK2 to Grade 5 thrive in a bilingual environment, learning English alongside their target language (Spanish, French, or Mandarin). This bilingual approach provides additional resources and opportunities for Tessa Kindergarteners’ language development. You can learn more about the benefits of early bilingual education here.  

Physical Development and Motor Skills

Numerous physical educational activities are involved in a high-quality Kindergarten experience to support a child’s general physical growth. Structured and unstructured play, along with different kinds of sports, help children improve their balance, coordination, and general fitness. Additionally, creative projects like painting, drawing, and crafting also help kids develop their fine motor skills, essential for complex tasks such as writing and detailed drawing.

Academic Performance

Longitudinal data show that children in full-day Kindergarten demonstrate greater gains in reading and Math achievement. These students are better prepared to excel academically, gaining an advantage over peers with less exposure to structured learning environments.  

Learning Independence

Kindergarten provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn responsibility and self-care. School routines, such as organizing personal belongings and completing teacher-devised tasks, help students build independence. At Tessa International School, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) nurtures this individual agency even further, empowering students to become active and self-directed learners from an early age.

Kindergarten at Tessa International School

Tessa International School offers a comprehensive educational journey from PK2 to Grade 5. Our Kindergarten program represents a significant shift in a child’s educational experience, emphasizing the three pillars of our School Mission: Bilingualism, Excellence, and Happiness.

Tessa’s KG program balances the more structured environment of Primary School with the play-based learning of Preschool. Through a curriculum integrating world-renowned educational practices, Kindergarteners build foundational literacy and numeracy skills while fostering individual development in a collaborative and multicultural environment.

  • Bilingual Program: With 80% immersion in the target language, students are not merely taught Spanish, French, or Mandarin—they also learn in these languages, integrating biliteracy into their daily interactions and studies. 
  • Social & Emotional Development: Ensuring the well-being and happiness of our students is at the heart of Tessa education. We provide robust psychological, physical, and interpersonal support for students to cultivate a lifelong passion of learning. Our personalized engaging learning approach also fosters optimism and compassion, shaping kindergarteners into caring and engaged global citizens. 
  • World-Class Education: Rooted in the inquiry-based IB framework, our KG program not only teaches knowledge but also cultivates critical hard and soft skills. Incorporating the international and local curricula, it lays a strong foundation for academic success.
  • Academic Challenge: Our program is thoughtfully structured for students to reach their full potential. Children are constantly and positively challenged in creative and critical thinking, inquiry, problem-solving, getting used to and enjoying striving for their best.
A Tessa kindergartener at his graduation ceremony with the proud teacher

At Tessa KG program, our mission is to foster bilingualism, excellence, and happiness in children.

 

FAQs

Q: What will my child do in Kindergarten? 

A: What kids learn in Kindergarten differs by school, but key subjects typically include basic concepts of reading, writing, Math, science, arts, and social studies. Extracurricular activities also play an important role in providing a well-rounded learning experience. You can discover Tessa International School’s Kindergarten Curriculum here. 

Q: What makes a good Kindergarten?  

A: A high-quality Kindergarten experience sets the tone for lifelong learning. It will enable your child to learn and practice the essential skills that they will need to be active learners even beyond the classroom over the time. At the core of a good KG program is a safe and nurturing environment, promoting the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of young children. Key components may include inclusivity, qualified teachers, supportive parents, and a mix of structured and spontaneous learning opportunities. At Tessa, we emphasize these components to create an enriching experience for every child. 

Q: What differs Tessa’s KG Program from other schools? 

A: Tessa International School’s Kindergarten program stands out due to its bilingual immersion, where students learn in Spanish, French, or Mandarin, rather than merely learning the language. It intentionally blends the structured approach of Elementary School with the play-based learning of Preschool, ensuring a balanced development of both academic and social-emotional skills and preparing children for next education levels. Rooted in the IB PYP framework and enriched by practices from rigorous international and local curricula, Tessa’s program fosters a global perspective in students. The emphasis on independent inquiry and multiculturalism ensures students are prepared for future academic and life challenges. You can learn more about our KG program here. 

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

A preschooler concentrates on his Math Assessment, monitored by his teacher at Tessa International School.

Assessment in The IB PYP

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Although it is often perceived as a straightforward measurement of what students have learned, assessment in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Year Programmes (PYP) extends beyond simple metrics. Rather, it is the feedback on the learning process. Effective PYP assessment is holistic, integrating a variety of purposeful strategies throughout the learning journey. It is also a collaborative process that involves students, teachers, families, and our community in meaningful ways. 

Grade 1 students in focus on their French Assessment aligned with the French School curriculum.

The prime objective of assessment in the PYP is to provide feedback on the learning process.

Why We Assess in IB PYP

From informal check-ins to school-required tests or projects, each assessment contributes differently to the ecosystem of a PYP classroom. At its core, PYP assessment aims to inform teaching and learning. 

  • For students, assessments allow them to reflect on their progress and therefore adjust their learning pathway to meet their goal. This is also part of their wider development of critical thinking and self-management. 
  • For teachers, assessments provide valuable insights that inform lesson planning and teaching strategies, enabling them to create an uplifting learning path forward. 
  • For families, assessment empowers parents with the knowledge of their child’s understanding and needs, supporting them to become active partners in children’s PYP journey and strengthening the school-home connection. 
  • For school, assessments guide school-wide decisions surrounding resources and curriculum, enhancing teachers and administrators’ collaboration to improve the learning environments. 

Understanding the prime objective of assessment brings clarity to teaching and learning, leading to the more actionable strategies as follows. 

What and How To Assess in IB PYP

The assessment approach (e.g. policy, processes, and practices) in the PYP is aligned with the program philosophy that inquiry-based learning is central to the curriculum framework. Therefore, the assessment evaluates both the process and products of inquiry, highlighting the Programme’s goal of continuing improvements for learners. In other words, when discussing “assessment,” we are telling the story of learning – where it began, how it evolved, how thinking shifted, and what understandings emerged.

Nevertheless, the question remains: How do we check for student understanding while they are still in the process of learning? 

To address this question, the latest PYP report, “PYP: From Principles into Practice (2018),” divides assessment into four dimensions: monitoring, documenting, measuring, and reporting on learning. Rather than being viewed as separate elements, these dimensions are integrated and flow together, reflecting learners’ process and progress in a whole image. 

4 dimensions of IB PYP Assessment weight differently, with a highlight on monitoring to collect students' learning evidence.

Each dimension has their own importance and value, providing a comprehensive view of students’ learning together.

This outline does not imply that summative assessments – more product-oriented evaluations such as End-of-Unit projects or single test grades – are entirely unimportant. Rather, these assessments are still relevant to students’ learning; they should be seen more as one of the opportunities to assess learning rather than the sole evidence. 

Assessment at Tessa

At Tessa International School, we believe in holistically-designed, developmentally appropriate assessments. Our assessments are thoughtfully designed to align with international and local curricula, including the U.S. Common Core Standards, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and the French, Spanish, and Chinese National Curricula.

Our assessments are designed to serve diverse purposes in relation to learning—namely, assessment of, for, and as learning. In other words, assessment is integral to students’ learning journeys, occurring throughout their educational experience in various forms and practices. Teachers employ a rich array of activities, strategies, and assessment artifacts to collect and record evidence on students’ learning.  Alongside teacher-devised assessment strategies, standardized tests are selectively incorporated based on subject area and grade level, forming a rich and balanced assessing approach that reflects validity and reliability.

Every trimester, report cards are issued to students from Nursery (PK2) to Elementary School Program (Grade 1 to Grade 5), tailored to document a detailed analysis and feedback of a student’s developmental performance.

“The reports reflect not only academic performance but also personal growth, such as collaboration, creativity, and responsibility, providing a comprehensive picture of each child’s development.  ”

– Our Assessment Policy: Report Cards. 

Our Grade 2 students collaborate on the peer assessment to develop their self evaluation and reflection skills.

Tessa incorporates a combination of teacher-devised evaluations as well as standardized tests for a valid and balanced assessment approach.

 

FAQs

Q: What is assessment in IB PYP? 

A: According to IBO, the PYP does not offer formal assessment. The prime objective of assessment in the PYP is to provide feedback on the learning process. Additionally, the PYP stresses the importance of students’ self-assessment and reflection. 

Q: How does the IB PYP assess students progress and development? 

A: PYP assessment focuses on continuous feedback through four dimensions: monitoring, documenting, measuring, and reporting on learning. This underpinned constructivist approach allows students to reflect on their learning and set goals for improvements. A variety of assessment methods can be employed, including formative and summative assessments, to gauge students progress in relation to their learning goals. 

Q: What is Tessa’s Assessment Policy? 

A: At Tessa International School, we believe in holistically-designed, developmentally appropriate assessments. Our assessment approach aligns with our integrated curriculum, involving the U.S. Common Core Standards, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and the French, Spanish, and Chinese National Curricula. With a consideration of valid, balanced, and reliable assessment evidence to best reflect students’ process and progress, we incorporate a combination of teacher-devised evaluations as well as standardized tests in our assessment practices. You can find more information here. 

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?

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A parent engages in his son's sharing of his learning in IB PYP.

How to Support Your Child as An IB PYP Parent

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The International Baccalaureate (IB) is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous educational curricula worldwide, designed to develop “inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help create a better, more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect” (International Baccalaureate Organization, or IBO). While it offers significant benefits, it’s natural for parents to feel uncertain about what it involves and how to best support their child, especially in the early stages of the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), when children are just starting to explore how they learn. So, how can caregivers support their child’s exciting and rewarding educational journey?

A parent engages in his son's sharing of his learning in IB PYP.

As a PYP parent, there are multiple specific ways you can support your child.

IB PYP at A Glance

IB PYP nurtures and develops young students, aged 3-12, as caring, active participants in a lifelong journey of learning. This Programme focuses a student-centered approach, with its framework emphasizing the central principle of agency, which underpins the three pillars of school life:

  • the learner
  • learning and teaching
  • the learning community.

Embedded within this framework is the recognition of the importance of fostering an individual’s self-efficacy. Students with a strong sense of self-efficacy are active participants in their own learning and take meaningful action within their learning community.

5 Tips to Support Your Child as A Learning Partner

As essential members of their child’s learning community, IB PYP parents play a key role in helping them deepen their learning. Here are five accessible ways, shared by the IBO, for parents to support their child’s learning at home. If you’re wondering how to better assist your child, these strategies will help you guide them in becoming lifelong learners, whether through formal learning connected to school or through incidental, unplanned learning from play, exploration, and life experiences.

  1. Take an inquiry stance. Parents are primary role models of their children, so your attitudes and positions can radically transform how children engage with the world. Instead of providing immediate answers to your child’s questions, encourage curiosity by responding with open-ended questions like, “What do you notice?” or “How might we explore that further?” This approach not only fosters critical thinking but also reinforces the value of inquiry-based learning through shared discovery. 
  2. Support your child’s agency. Empower your child by involving them in decision-making and encouraging their self-expression. Create time and space for their independent discoveries, and hold back from giving too many suggestions. By supporting their choices and emphasizing personal responsibility in their learning, you nurture children’s independence and self-confidence. 
  3. Support conceptual understanding. This notion is at the heart of IB PYP, where learning occurs through concept-driven Units of Inquiry within a transdisciplinary framework. During the Inquiry Learning Cycle, consider asking questions such as “What strategy did you use?” and “How and why did you do that?” These questions value their approach to the answers, encouraging children to articulate their reasoning and remain actively engaged in learning. More importantly, this process promotes them to connect ideas across disciplines and subjects, fostering a richer and more meaningful understanding of abstract concepts. 
  4. Prioritize reflection. Being reflective is one of the core attributes of the IB Learner Profiles, helping individuals become responsible members of communities. By encouraging children to think about their own thinking, you can help them develop metacognitive abilities and facilitate higher order thinking, including application, analysis, evaluation, and creation.
  5. Give feedback that goes beyond the moment. Comparing questions like “How are you doing?” with “What might come next? ”, you will find that the former may result in less thoughtful and forward-looking responses, while the latter shifts the focus from immediate, isolated outcomes to continuous learning. Whether during Student-Led Conferences or everyday learning moments, it is beneficial for parents to guide their children toward long-term growth and future inquiry.

IB PYP at Tessa International School

Tessa is proud to be an IB World School offering the PYP to students aged 2 to 10. Following its transdisciplinary framework, excellence spans across Science, Social Studies, Language and Literacy, Math, Arts, Social-Emotional Learning, and Physical Education, all while nurturing a lifelong love of learning in our students. 

As an international school offering bilingual education, the robust French National, Spanish, and Chinese Curricula as well as the US Standards are seamlessly integrated into our IB PYP Framework, formulating our distinctive educational approach. Students actively engage with dynamic unit topics through an immersive language experience grounded in real-life situations.

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken? 

Contact Tessa International School to learn more! 

A teacher and her student on Graduation Day

Excellence in Education at Tessa International School

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Excellence, by definition, is the unwavering commitment to do anything to the best of our ability. At Tessa International School, it is not an abstract ideal. Excellence is one of the three pillars of our fundamental philosophy that underpins everything we do. 

Cultivating excellence in our students goes beyond academic achievement. It encompasses developing positive character traits, fostering global visions, and instilling a lifelong passion for learning. We are committed to helping students internally embrace the notion of excellence and strive towards it. 

Excellent Educational Practices: Our Global Accreditations

Tessa’s program has been built on the principle of incorporating the world’s best practices in education. Our school holds three premier global accreditations, which highlight the high standards we maintain and our commitment to academic excellence. 

These renowned accreditations ensure a seamless transition for students into similar institutions in the US and around the world, facilitating their global mobility and fostering their continued success.

Excellent Teachers: Our Foundation and Support

Central to our pursuit of excellence is our team of passionate and experienced teachers, who dedicate themselves to the educational experience at Tessa. Our teachers are highly credentialed professionals, mostly holding advanced degrees and specialized training in their subject areas. 

The group photo of teachers

Our teachers create a supportive community that inspires students to reach their full potential.

We provide a child-centered approach tailored to each student’s unique needs and interests. With a low teacher-to-student ratio, we prioritize personalized attention, ensuring that each student receives the support and guidance they need to thrive academically and emotionally. Simultaneously, language immersion, project-based learning, and an international perspective are integral to our curriculum. 

Each member of our team is a native speaker. With their diverse backgrounds, our educators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, enriching the learning environment and fostering multicultural exchange. At Tessa, we celebrate our differences. It is through understanding and respect that we cultivate knowledgeable, caring, and excellent individuals who are equipped to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Our teachers may have different origins, but they all share the same love of language and culture, and the common goal of empowering students in a warm and supportive environment. 

 

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”

– Will Durant, paraphrasing Aristotle.

 

By all means, we aim to motivate our students to pursue excellence intrinsically. It is not just a destination but a journey we embark on. Through the incorporation of world’s best educational practices and a team of highly credentialed native-speaking teachers, we strive to provide a world-class education that promotes students for excellence in an ever-changing global landscape. 

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken? 

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

A girl is showing her IB Learner Profile activities to her mother.

A Closer Look at Student-Led Conferences

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Student-Led Conferences are an integral part of the assessment and learning process of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). Unlike traditional school conferences where teachers primarily lead discussions, Student-Led Conferences place students at the center of their learning journey, encouraging them to share their progress with their families. But what exactly are Student-Led Conferences, and why are they so crucial? 

A girl is showing her IB Learner Profile activities to her mother.

Student-Led Conferences can be highly beneficial for students and their educational experience.

Defining Student-Led Conferences

Student-Led Conferences involve students and parents. The main purpose is for students to take the responsibility for their learning. Students are responsible for leading the conference and sharing their learning process with their family. The conference may involve students demonstrating their understanding through a variety of different learning situations. 

During conferences, students will discuss and reflect upon samples of work that they have previously chosen to share with their parents. These samples have been selected with guidance and support from the teacher. With their parents, students are expected to reflect on their own learning journey, showcase their current progress, and set goals for the future. 

A girl shows her samples of work to her parents during her Student-Led conference.

Students presents their work and guides the discussion in the conference.

Benefits of Student-Led Conferences

  1. Learner Agency: Student-Led Conferences encourage students to exercise more agency over their learning. Students will lead all stages of the conference. They prepare work samples, plan the agenda, and reflect on the feedback from parents. These conferences establish chances and conditions for students to have voice, choice, and ownership for their own learning. In turn, students can exhibit higher levels of motivation and engagement in their journey to become an IB Learner. 
  2. Self-Reflection: Student-Led Conferences require students to give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development. Students may reflect on the following topics during conferences: 
    1. Ways in which students learn: inquiry-based learning, visible thinking, etc; 
    2. What students have been learning: knowledge, skills, etc; 
    3. Outcomes arise from our learning: stories written, dramas performed, artworks, speeches, etc.
  3. Communication ability: Leading a conference helps students develop stronger communication skills. They learn to articulate their thoughts, share their accomplishments, and discuss their challenges. This experience can enhance their ability to express themselves effectively, both in and out of the classroom.
  4. Parent involvement: Student-Led Conferences enable parents to become partners who work alongside students in their learning process, giving parents an insight into the progress and process of their child’s learning. The conferences promote open communications between parents and students, where parents can realize the process in which students transfer concepts into actions. The conference is an opportunity to empower students and parents with an emphasis on growth, progress, and development.
  5. Teachers’ Partnership: Working as a facilitator to support students’ ownership of learning can give teachers new insights that allow them to make the learning environment more effective. By observing the interactions between students and parents and reading the feedback, teachers can also provide parents suggestions about how to support their children at home during Parent/Teacher conferences.
Student's self-reflection for their Student-Led Conference.

Student-Led Conferences require students to be reflective, a key component to IB learning.

Expectations

Student

  • Demonstrate responsibility for their learning journey.
  • Plan the conference ahead of time.
  • Provide an oral and written reflection of their learning journey.
  • Lead his or her parent(s) through a variety of activities independently. 
  • Acknowledge their strengths and areas for improvement from parent’s feedback. 

Parent

  • Encourage and support their child in describing their learning journey by asking questions.
  • Provide feedback to their child; help them set goals for the future and create a corresponding action plan.

Teacher

  • Provide time for students to plan, organize, and practice for the conference. 
  • Mentor students when setting learning goals. 
  • Offer guidance and expectations for student reflection. 
A boy shows his samples of work to his parents during his Student-Led Conference.

Student-Led Conferences are an effective method for promoting parent participation.

According to this study by Cheryl Lambert of Austin Peay State University, Student-Led Conference “offers students the opportunity to take the lead in the conference using their own work evidence; thereby, encouraging ownership and responsibility for quality outcomes.” The conference is a way of letting students shine and for providing opportunities for transdisciplinary development in planning and evaluation across the school.

 

Do you want to explore how this works at one of the top Hoboken private schools?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

A student in the international baccalaureate at TESSA working at a table

What Is the IB Primary Years Programme?

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If you’re exploring educational options for your child, you’ve likely heard of the international baccalaureate. What Is the IB Primary Years Programme? Rooted in the belief that education should go beyond the confines of traditional classroom learning, an IB education aims to nurture well-rounded leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to thrive in an interconnected world. Today, we’ll explore the philosophy at the heart of the IB Primary Years Programme, its benefits, and why you should choose the program at Tessa International School.

What Is the IB Primary Years Programme?

What does the international baccalaureate mean? The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an internationally recognized educational program that provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to learning. Specifically, the IB Primary Years Programme is a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based, and learner-centered educational framework. The curriculum is meant to be engaging, significant, challenging, and tailored to suit the individual learning levels and developmental needs of students.

A student in the international baccalaureate program waving two flags

The international baccalaureate program at Tessa is an intellectually enriching environment.

With a focus on international-mindedness, the IB organization encourages students to appreciate different cultures, follow their natural curiosity, and develop a sense of social responsibility – all values we cherish at Tessa International School.

The IB Primary Years Programme offers a challenging and rigorous curriculum based on constructivist and social-constructivist learning theories. Under the constructivism learning theory,  students construct a knowledge of themselves and their community. The PYP curriculum emphasizes collaborative inquiry, agency, voice, and the student’s involvement in their learning. Students are encouraged to engage their sense of personal agency and self-efficacy to take positive action within the school environment and throughout their lives.

Graduates of the IB Primary Years Programme are poised to move on to the next level of their IB education. Ultimately, they will lead fulfilling lives and positively contribute to the global community. Now that you know the initial question: what is the IB primary years programme? It’s time to explore the benefits waiting in store.

Benefits of the IB Diploma Program

So, what benefits can you expect for your child? Here at Tessa, we understand the advantages of introducing children to IB teachings early on. Academic advantages include:

  • Global Recognition: The international baccalaureate program is recognized and respected worldwide, opening doors to higher education institutions and career opportunities globally. Universities often value IB graduates for their well-rounded skill set and commitment to community service.
  • Critical Thinking Skills: The program’s emphasis on agency, self-directed learning, collective inquiry, and curiosity equips students with skills beyond memorization. These skills are essential for success in any educational endeavor and the professional world.
  • Producing Well-Rounded, Confident  Leaders: By incorporating agency, student-centered learning, IB PYP students develop a strong self-concept and awareness of their community. As a result, they become academically capable, socially responsible, culturally aware, and ready to lead.
A student in the international baccalaureate program working with a teacher at a desk

The international baccalaureate program at Tessa offers students a solid foundation for success.

Why Choose the IB Primary Years Programme at Tessa?

At Tessa International School, we are committed to providing an exceptional IB education through our accredited Primary Years Programme. Our dedicated and highly qualified faculty are passionate about fostering a love of learning and guiding students through the intellectual challenges of this rigorous program. Their expertise ensures that students receive the support they need to excel in their studies.

Many opportunities for our students to participate in skill-based extracurricular activities allow them to fulfill the requirements of the curriculum while exploring their passions and interests. The IB Diploma Program at Tessa International School empowers young leaders by fostering critical thinking, global awareness, and social responsibility. The earlier students are introduced to these benefits, the better. Start exploring a bright educational future for your child now!

FAQs

Q: What does the international baccalaureate mean? 

A: The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an internationally recognized educational program that provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to learning.

Q: What does having an IB diploma do?

A: The international baccalaureate offers students a broader range of benefits and opportunities, such as Global Recognition and various skills.

 

Are you ready to explore Hoboken private schools?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

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Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Office: (201) 755-5585 | Location: 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ 07030