Emergent Curriculum Program In our children’s centres we embrace the emergent curriculum approach to early childhood education. Our children’s centres share a common program philosophy, however each centre reflects the unique skills, interests and experiences of the children, staff, and families.

The emergent curriculum builds on the interests and natural learning styles of the children. Children learn in warm nurturing programs that provide positive, "hands on" learning experiences. Children share their interests working collaboratively on projects that promote the development of the skills children need for later school and life success.

In the emergent curriculum: all children are viewed as resourceful and competent learners the program occurs within a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment "hands on" activities encourage problem solving and play based learning children participate actively with the teacher in planning and researching projects children are given opportunities for increased decision making, independence and responsibility a sense of wonder and an appreciation of the beauty of nature, is encouraged attractive learning centres are designed to encourage a variety of learning activities including: writing, reading, creative art, sensory, discovery, dramatic play, blocks/construction, woodworking, computers.

The role of the teacher includes: carefully observing children to determine their interests, experiences and needs understanding child development promoting the development of skills necessary for school and life success (includes social, emotional, physical and cognitive/intellectual skills) recognizing "teachable moments" in which the teacher engages the children in meaningful problem solving, planning and learning facilitating the children’s in-depth investigation of a project. A project may be any topic that intrigues the children and is worth researching together and learning more about. (How are stain glass windows made? What is ice cream made of?)

Our indoor and outdoor spaces provide high quality living, learning and work environments. The indoor play space is enriched with comfy furniture, creative lighting and an abundance of plants and natural items. Well organized learning centres, effectively combine toys and educational resources with real tools, utensils and household items. Attractive displays of children’s paintings, sculptures and ongoing projects reflect the children’s learning experiences.

Click here to learn more about the emergent curriculum and the effective use of projects in early education.