Why We're Called "Talented and Gifted" Academy (And What It Really Means)

Let's address the elephant in the room.

When parents hear "Talented and Gifted Academy," many assume we're looking for the "elite" kids—the ones already reading at age three, the prodigies, the advanced learners. Some wonder if their child would even qualify. Others worry we're one of those exclusive programs that only accepts certain children.

Here's the truth: We named our school TAG Academy because we believe every single child is talented and gifted.

We're not looking for children who are already reading. We're creating readers. We're not seeking out gifted students—we're nurturing the gifts that already exist in every child who walks through our doors, from six weeks old to five years old.

At TAG Academy in Lexington, South Carolina, "Talented and Gifted" isn't about exclusivity. It's about our commitmentto you: We will discover your child's unique talents, honor their individual gifts, and provide the individualized early literacy education they need to thrive—no matter where they're starting from.

The Science Behind Our Philosophy: Why Early Literacy Matters for ALL Children

Early childhood isn't just important for learning—it's critical. Research shows that ages 0-5 represent the most significant window for brain development and language acquisition. Dr. Patricia Kuhl, a leading researcher in early language development, calls this period the "critical window" when children's brains are primed for language learning.

But here's what really matters: This window is open for every child. Not just the "naturally gifted" ones. Not just children from highly educated families. Every child's brain is ready to absorb language, build literacy skills, and develop a love of learning during these crucial years.

The research is clear: Children who enter kindergarten with strong early literacy foundations are significantly more likely to succeed academically throughout their school years. One remarkable finding shows that having books in the home is more predictive of academic success than parental education level.

This tells us something powerful: Access and opportunity matter more than innate ability. And that's exactly what we provide at TAG Academy.

What Early Literacy Really Means (It Starts WAY Earlier Than You Think)

When most people think "literacy," they picture a child sitting with a book, sounding out words. But literacy begins much, much earlier—and it looks very different than you might expect.

For Infants (6 Weeks to 18 Months): Literacy Starts With Communication

"You're not going to have a formal desk where they sit down all day," explains our approach. "We do it in a way they can appreciate."

For our youngest learners, literacy means:

• Talking to babies throughout the day, narrating what we're doing

• Asking questions even before they can answer ("Are you ready for your bottle?")

• Showing pictures and books with high-contrast images and simple words

• Responding to their sounds, treating coos and babbles as real conversation

• Singing songs that introduce rhythm, rhyme, and language patterns

During diaper changes, we describe what we're doing: "Let's put on your clean diaper! Can you lift your legs? There we go!" During feeding time, we talk about what they're eating, the temperature, the colors. Every interaction builds language pathways in their developing brains.

This is literacy. This is where reading begins.

For Toddlers (18 Months to 3 Years): Learning Through Play

Our toddler classrooms might surprise you. There are no worksheets. No flashcards drilling alphabet letters. Instead, you'll find children building with blocks, exploring sensory bins, finger painting, having dance parties, and engaging in dramatic play.

And yes—this is all literacy.

Through our play-based curriculum, toddlers build the foundation for reading:

• Vocabulary explodes as they explore textures, colors, shapes, and feelings

• Sequencing skills develop through storytelling and routine

• Fine motor skills strengthen through art and manipulatives (essential for writing later)

• STEAM concepts (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) introduce problem-solving and critical thinking

• Social-emotional literacy grows as they learn to express feelings and interact with peers

We use the award-winning Lillio curriculum, which provides hands-on materials that our teachers use to create individualized learning experiences. Story time isn't passive—it's interactive. We ask questions: "What do you think will happen next?" "How does the bear feel?" "Can you find something red on this page?"

Children learn that stories have meaning, that print carries information, and that reading is joyful and engaging.

For Preschoolers and Pre-K (3 to 5 Years): Building Confident Readers

This is where literacy instruction becomes more formal—but never one-size-fits-all.

Our kindergarten prep program focuses on:

• Phonics instruction teaching letter sounds and blending

• Vocabulary development introducing rich, descriptive language

• Reading comprehension ensuring children understand what they read

• Math readiness building numeracy alongside literacy

• STEAM enrichment fostering curiosity and creativity

But here's what makes TAG Academy different: We meet YOUR child exactly where they are.

In any given preschool classroom, you might have:

• A child who's already reading simple books independently

• A child who's just learning letter sounds

• A child who's working on letter recognition

• A child who needs extra support with speech sounds

• A child who's ready for more complex phonics patterns

Traditional programs often teach to the middle, leaving some children bored and others struggling. Not at TAG Academy.

The TAG Difference: Individualized Learning That Actually Works

"Every child learns differently, which is why we tailor our teaching methods to fit each student's unique strengths and challenges," is not just our motto—it's our daily practice.

Here's how we make individualized learning a reality:

1. The Lillio Curriculum System

We use the award-winning Lillio curriculum with monthly materials that teachers use as a guide—but here's the key: the lessons are individualized to each child's learning level. This means:

• Advanced learners get enrichment activities that challenge and engage them

• Emerging learners receive targeted support in areas where they need it

• Every child progresses at their optimal pace without being held back or rushed

• Teachers adapt the curriculum materials to meet each student exactly where they are

2. Progress Tracking and Parent Partnership

We document each child's growth and share detailed progress reports with parents regularly. You'll know exactly:

• What skills your child is working on

• Where they're excelling

• Where they need more practice

• What you can do at home to support their learning

3. Evidence-Based Methods

Our curriculum is built on research-proven strategies for early literacy development. We don't follow trends—we follow science.

4. Small Group and Individual Attention

Our structure allows teachers to work with children in small groups based on current skill level, providing targeted instruction that meets each child exactly where they are.

As we say: "We can provide them with the constructive work they need and they won't be held back because of other children. And contrastingly, if a child is learning slower, we can focus on getting them what they need. The goal is to let them learn as much as they possibly can at their pace."

Our Core Values: Why Inclusivity Isn't Just a Buzzword

At TAG Academy, everything we do is guided by six core values:

Inclusivity sits at the heart of who we are. We embrace diversity and ensure that every child feels valued and supported. Our programs are designed to meet the needs of all learners, and we celebrate the uniqueness of each child, fostering a culture of acceptance and respect.

Curiosity drives our approach to learning. We create an environment that inspires children to ask questions, seek answers, and develop a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Creativity flourishes when children feel safe to explore and experiment. We provide creative learning experiences that help children develop problem-solving skills and discover new ways of expressing themselves.

Kindness shapes every interaction. We teach and model empathy, compassion, and positive social interactions, helping children develop strong emotional intelligence.

Integrity means we uphold the highest standards in everything we do, fostering an environment where children learn the importance of trust and respect.

Excellence is our commitment to continuously improving our programs and providing high-quality, evidence-based education that helps every child reach their full potential.

These aren't just words on our website. They're the foundation of how we teach, how we interact with children, and how we build relationships with families.

What "Talented and Gifted" Really Means at TAG Academy

So when we say "Talented and Gifted Academy," here's what we mean:

We believe your six-week-old infant is gifted with an incredible capacity to learn language.

We believe your active toddler is talented at exploring and making sense of the world.

We believe your quiet preschooler has unique gifts waiting to be discovered and nurtured.

We believe your energetic four-year-old is gifted with creativity and curiosity.

We believe every child who enters our doors has talent and potential—and it's our job, our mission, our calling to help them develop it.

We're not looking for children who are already "gifted." We're committed to recognizing and developing the gifts that exist in every child.

That's the TAG difference.

Ready to See the Difference?

If you're looking for an early childhood learning center in Lexington, South Carolina that truly believes in your child's potential—regardless of where they're starting from—we'd love to meet you.

At TAG Academy, we provide a safe, stable, and inspiring learning environment where young children develop strong literacy skills, curiosity, and creativity. Our award-winning, evidence-based curriculum is tailored to each child's unique needs, preparing them to excel in school and beyond.

We serve children from six weeks through five years old, with programs designed specifically for each developmental stage.

Schedule a tour of our Lexington facility and see how we're creating confident, capable, joyful readers—one child at a time.

Because at TAG Academy, every child is talented. Every child is gifted. And every child deserves an education that honors who they are and helps them become everything they can be.

TAG Academy is located in Lexington, South Carolina, serving families throughout the greater Columbia area. Learn more at tagsc.net or call to schedule your personal tour today.