From Early Reading to Early Confidence
Choosing a preschool is one of the most important decisions parents can make, and at SLI The Sidney Ledson School in Toronto, our program builds on decades of proven results and internationally recognized achievements. Founded by educator and author Sidney Ledson, SLI began with his groundbreaking early reading method that drew national attention. His approach, presented in books such as Teach Your Child to Read in Just Ten Minutes a Day and Teach Your Child to Read in 60 Days, demonstrated that very young children could develop strong literacy foundations through systematic phonics and daily structured practice (Ledson, 1987; Archive copy). That legacy continues today at SLI, where early literacy remains central to our preschool classrooms.
A Legacy of Early Reading Excellence
Research has consistently shown that systematic phonics instruction significantly improves children’s decoding, word recognition, and overall reading achievement (National Reading Panel, 2000; Reading Rockets). At SLI, preschoolers begin with guided phonics lessons, daily decoding practice, and rich spoken-language experiences that help them transition smoothly into fluent, confident readers. Parents often notice their children reading independently much earlier than expected, a direct reflection of this structured, research-backed approach.
Building Strong Foundations in Early Numeracy
Just as early literacy matters, so does early numeracy. Studies confirm that preschool-aged children who gain experience in counting, patterns, and number sense show stronger math achievement later on (Sarnecka & Lee, 2019). At SLI, children are introduced to numbers through hands-on activities that move from concrete to abstract understanding. By kindergarten, many are already solving problems at a level well beyond their age, and SLI students have even competed in international math contests from the earliest grades.
Nurturing Early Writing and National Achievements
Our writing program also begins early, with preschoolers engaging in simple journaling, labeling, and storytelling. Over time, these skills grow into advanced writing ability, often recognized on a national stage. Most recently, an SLI kindergarten student won first place nationally in the Polar Expressions short story contest, and one of our Grade 6 students—who began here in preschool—also placed first nationally. These achievements highlight how early literacy and writing foundations can blossom into remarkable outcomes.
Balanced Preschool Programs and Child Development Research
Beyond literacy and numeracy, developmental psychology emphasizes the importance of balanced, structured preschool experiences for cognitive, emotional, and social growth. High-quality preschool programs are linked to higher achievement, stronger self-regulation, and long-term academic success (Learning Policy Institute; OECD 2021–2025 studies). At SLI, this balance is embedded in our classrooms: structured lessons in reading, math, and writing are paired with purposeful play, exploration, and social learning.
Individualized Pacing and Small Class Sizes
Families choose SLI’s preschool program not only because of its strong academic reputation but also because of its small class sizes, individualized pacing, and nurturing environment. Each child moves ahead when ready, ensuring that early talents are fostered rather than held back. This combination of research-based practice, proven results, and personalized care makes SLI a unique place where children thrive.
Start Your Child’s Journey at SLI
If you are seeking a private preschool program in Toronto that combines a trusted legacy, research-backed methods, and a warm environment, SLI The Sidney Ledson School offers an extraordinary start. We welcome you to visit our campus, meet our teachers, and see how the right preschool can open doors for your child’s lifelong success.