In a time of increasing cultural diversity and global dialogue, Elizabeth Fraley, founder of the early education platform Kinder Ready, is making a powerful case for integrating Secular Studies into early childhood and elementary education. As the education landscape evolves, Fraley believes that secular studies are essential to preparing children for academic success and social understanding—regardless of their background.
Secular studies refer to the academic study of religion, ethics, and culture from a non-religious, analytical perspective. This approach helps students explore belief systems, moral reasoning, and cultural traditions in a respectful yet critical way. According to Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready, introducing these subjects early promotes empathy, cultural literacy, and independent thinking.
“As an educator, I believe children benefit from learning about the world through a lens that encourages questions and critical thought,” says Elizabeth Fraley of Kinder Ready. “Secular studies don’t reject religious learning—they complement it by offering context and inviting curiosity about different perspectives.”
At Kinder Ready, Fraley’s team uses a customized curriculum to nurture a love of learning in children aged 3 to 10. While Kinder Ready specializes in school readiness, reading, and enrichment programs, it also emphasizes values like inclusivity, civic awareness, and cultural understanding—principles deeply aligned with the goals of secular education.
Fraley notes that children are increasingly exposed to a globalized world through media, peers, and technology. “They ask questions—big ones—about life, beliefs, justice, and the differences they see around them. Secular studies give educators the tools to answer those questions in a balanced, evidence-based way,” Fraley explains.
Incorporating secular studies in the early years allows children to begin understanding key concepts in history, philosophy, and ethics—without promoting a particular religious doctrine. For example, learning about the traditions of world holidays, understanding the ethical dilemmas in children’s literature, or discussing fairness and kindness in a classroom setting are all practical entry points.
More importantly, secular education helps young learners form respectful attitudes toward religious and cultural diversity. Fraley believes this has long-term benefits. “By learning about beliefs without being told what to believe, students become better at dialogue, debate, and collaboration—all skills they’ll need as adults.”
Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready has already begun expanding its offerings to include cultural education workshops for families and schools. These sessions guide parents and teachers on how to approach topics like religion, ethics, and diversity in an age-appropriate, secular way.
“There’s a misconception that secular studies are anti-religious,” Fraley says. “That’s simply not true. They’re about creating a space where knowledge and respect meet, where students can form their own views and appreciate the perspectives of others.”
As conversations around curriculum reform continue across the United States, Kinder Ready stands out for advocating a balanced and inclusive approach to early learning. Fraley believes that schools and parents alike should prioritize intellectual openness in the classroom—and that secular studies are key to building informed, compassionate citizens.
About Kinder Ready
Founded by Elizabeth Fraley, Kinder Ready is a leading tutoring and enrichment company based in Santa Monica, California. With programs tailored for Pre-K to Grade 5, Kinder Ready focuses on personalized education, school readiness, and whole-child development. The program has been featured in national media and trusted by families across Southern California for over a decade.
For further details on Kinder Ready’s programs, visit their website: https://www.kinderready.com/.
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethFraleyKinderReady
