Description of the Program

• We follow the theory of Emergent Curriculum as outlined in the NB Curriculum Framework training, taken by Educators in NB. The Curriculum and all supporting documents can be found here:   

http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/education/elcc/content/curriculum.html  

• Our Learning Principles and Goals are weaved around the broader goals found in the above-mentioned Framework. They are:  

· Well-being  

· Play and Playfulness  

· Communications and Literacy  

· Diversity and Social Responsibility   

• The measures taken to reach each goal include the implementation of an Emergent Curriculum, where the daily activities are purposely planned yet flexible, according to the ages and development of the children present.  
• We are inspired by the Education system in Reggio-Emilia, Italy. This emphasizes the value of an intentional environment and trust in the child as the curriculum!
• We believe in PLAY and Discovery-Based Learning! This means learning is very child-directed and the Educator is well described as a Collaborator and Facilitator. You will see the Educator building on the children’s interests and getting involved in the learning process. Greater value is placed on process over product, so you will notice a strong emphasis on Art and Construction in our classroom.   
• Materials are open-ended whenever possible and items are real or authentic, whenever possible. A large portion of the room is dedicated to our “Atelier” or Studio/Workshop. The children have access to both a worktable, as well as a large amount of open floor space.  
• Materials are accessible based on age appropriateness of the children in our group. Great care and priority are given to keeping small, loose parts up and out of the babies’ grasp. Children learn from a young age to respect and value their environment and materials when they truly feel at home and that the classroom belongs to them. Great effort is made to make the children feel at home when in our care!   
• School aged children have opportunities to explore new interests and relationships in an informal setting with chances to be physically active, collaborate, and explore. This is often a great change in pace from their formal school days.