Early Years
PURPOSE
The Early Years Program promotes sustained, healthy development of children between the ages of 2.5 and 6 and prepares them for later school years with a strong foundation for learning.
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
The program at Ekya Schools is designed to provide a foundation for academic excellence while nurturing the holistic development of each child. Grounded in the philosophy of Maria Montessori, our program fosters independence, self-discovery, and a love for learning. In this setting, advantages abound, transforming education into an immersive journey of discovery.
Our Curriculum
At Ekya, we understand the value of Montessori principles in early childhood education and their ability to enhance a child’s development. Our Early Years Program embraces key Montessori concepts to create a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for children aged 3 to 6.
Here’s how we integrate Montessori principles into our program:
Prepared Environment
Our learning spaces are carefully curated to provide a calm, organised environment that promotes independent exploration. We incorporate Montessori materials and tools that engage children’s senses and encourage hands-on learning. These materials are strategically placed to foster self-directed discovery and encourage children to choose activities that align with their interests and developmental needs.
Self-Directed Learning
We emphasise the importance of self-directed learning, allowing children to choose and engage in activities that resonate with them. Our classrooms are designed to facilitate children’s autonomy, enabling them to select tasks, work at their own pace, and explore subjects that capture their curiosity. This approach not only nurtures a sense of independence but also empowers children to take ownership of their learning journey.
Focus on Practical Life Skills
Montessori’s emphasis on practical life skills aligns seamlessly with our philosophy of holistic development. We incorporate everyday tasks and activities into our program, allowing children to learn essential life skills such as pouring, buttoning, and cleaning. These activities not only enhance fine motor skills but also promote concentration, coordination, and a sense of responsibility.
Individualised Progress
Just as Montessori education values each child’s unique pace of development, our program recognises and respects individual learning journeys. We provide opportunities for one-on-one interactions and tailor activities to suit each child’s needs, strengths, and interests. This personalised approach supports children in reaching their full potential and fosters a positive attitude toward learning.
Mixed-Age Grouping
Our classrooms embrace the Montessori practice of mixed-age grouping, where children of varying ages share the same learning space. This arrangement encourages collaboration, peer learning, and the development of social skills. Younger children observe and learn from older peers, while older children reinforce their knowledge by helping younger ones. This dynamic promotes a sense of community and mutual support.
Hands-On Learning Materials
Montessori materials are an integral part of our curriculum. These thoughtfully designed materials cater to different learning styles and developmental stages. They promote sensory exploration, fine motor skills, and cognitive development. Children engage with these materials to grasp abstract concepts such as mathematics, language, and sensory experiences, fostering a deeper understanding and a love for learning.
- Sensorial Activities: Using Montessori materials to explore and understand the world.
- Practical Life Skills: Hands-on tasks to develop self-care and environmental responsibility.
- Inquiry-Based Learning: Encouraging curiosity through projects and field trips.
- Language & Literacy: Building communication skills through reading and storytelling.
- Mathematics: Interactive sessions to explore numbers and patterns using the CPA approach.
- The Arts: Creative expression through visual and performing arts.
- The Atelier: A space for experimentation and innovation through play-based activities.
- Outdoor Play: Developing motor skills and promoting an active lifestyle.
Socio-Emotional Growth: Building empathy, focus, and self-awareness through mindfulness practices.
Key Highlights:
- Concrete Learning Experiences: Hands-on mastery for a solid academic foundation.
- Environment for Multiple Learning Styles: Tailored spaces for diverse minds to flourish.
- Individualized Learning: Autonomy-driven education, pace set by each child.
Moving towards Mastery: Melody of mastery: slow, steady, and deeply understood.
Development of Independence, Fine Motor Skills, and Concentration: Empowering autonomy, motor skills, and focus through Montessori.
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
- Problem-solving for Learning Outcomes: Discovering gateways through problem-solving, shaping critical thinkers.
- Abstract Concepts Simplified: Making the complex simple, a scientifically designed learning journey.
- The Environment: Inspiring exploration, independence, and collaboration in every corner.
Collaborative Learning: Holistic collaboration, where older guides and younger minds unite.
Our Curriculum
At Ekya, we understand the value of Montessori principles in early childhood education and their ability to enhance a child’s development. Our Early Years Program embraces key Montessori concepts to create a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for children aged 3 to 6.
Here’s how we integrate Montessori principles into our program:
Prepared Environment
Our learning spaces are carefully curated to provide a calm, organised environment that promotes independent exploration. We incorporate Montessori materials and tools that engage children’s senses and encourage hands-on learning. These materials are strategically placed to foster self-directed discovery and encourage children to choose activities that align with their interests and developmental needs.
Self-Directed Learning
We emphasise the importance of self-directed learning, allowing children to choose and engage in activities that resonate with them. Our classrooms are designed to facilitate children’s autonomy, enabling them to select tasks, work at their own pace, and explore subjects that capture their curiosity. This approach not only nurtures a sense of independence but also empowers children to take ownership of their learning journey.
Focus on Practical Life Skills
Montessori’s emphasis on practical life skills aligns seamlessly with our philosophy of holistic development. We incorporate everyday tasks and activities into our program, allowing children to learn essential life skills such as pouring, buttoning, and cleaning. These activities not only enhance fine motor skills but also promote concentration, coordination, and a sense of responsibility.
Individualised Progress
Just as Montessori education values each child’s unique pace of development, our program recognises and respects individual learning journeys. We provide opportunities for one-on-one interactions and tailor activities to suit each child’s needs, strengths, and interests. This personalised approach supports children in reaching their full potential and fosters a positive attitude toward learning.
Mixed-Age Grouping
Our classrooms embrace the Montessori practice of mixed-age grouping, where children of varying ages share the same learning space. This arrangement encourages collaboration, peer learning, and the development of social skills. Younger children observe and learn from older peers, while older children reinforce their knowledge by helping younger ones. This dynamic promotes a sense of community and mutual support.
Hands-On Learning Materials
Montessori materials are an integral part of our curriculum. These thoughtfully designed materials cater to different learning styles and developmental stages. They promote sensory exploration, fine motor skills, and cognitive development. Children engage with these materials to grasp abstract concepts such as mathematics, language, and sensory experiences, fostering a deeper understanding and a love for learning.
- Sensorial Activities: Using Montessori materials to explore and understand the world.
- Practical Life Skills: Hands-on tasks to develop self-care and environmental responsibility.
- Inquiry-Based Learning: Encouraging curiosity through projects and field trips.
- Language & Literacy: Building communication skills through reading and storytelling.
- Mathematics: Interactive sessions to explore numbers and patterns using the CPA approach.
- The Arts: Creative expression through visual and performing arts.
- The Atelier: A space for experimentation and innovation through play-based activities.
- Outdoor Play: Developing motor skills and promoting an active lifestyle.
Socio-Emotional Growth: Building empathy, focus, and self-awareness through mindfulness practices.
Curriculum Overview
Sensorial Activities
Exploring their senses using Montessori Material serves as a catalyst for understanding the world around them.
Practical Life Skills
Hands-on experiences where children learn to care for their environment and, equally importantly, for themselves.
Inquiry-Based Learning
Foster curiosity and critical thinking with inquiry-based learning processes and enriching outbound learning trips.
Language & Literacy
Setting sail on learning the nuances of language through skills, cultivating effective communication through initiatives like Reading Programs and Storytelling.
Mathematics
Explore the world of numbers, patterns, and mathematical thinking through engaging and interactive learning sessions and the CPA Approach
The Arts
Fostering creativity through visual and performing arts, participating in exploring art through immersive experiences.
The Atelier
A creative laboratory for young children to engage in play-based experimentation with materials to bring about a mindset of creativity and innovation.
Outdoor Play
Physical fitness, and gross and fine motor skills through regular outdoor play and activities encouraging an active lifestyle.
Socio-Emotional Growth
Empathy, self-regulation, and social awareness with a focus on mindfulness practices in daily routines and activities, promoting self-awareness and focus.
STUDENT LIFE
At Ekya Schools, students are consistently encouraged to make real-world connections with their classroom learning. Â Each experience is thoughtfully curated to ensure age-appropriate engagement, allowing students to apply their knowledge to practical situations and enhance their understanding of complex concepts.
Field Trips
Explore beyond the classroom, sparking curiosity on immersive journeys.
Learning Showcases
Celebrate student learning with exciting moments woven into the academic journey.
Special Events and Celebrations
Vibrant tapestry of student life, where each day is a new chapter in learning adventure.
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If you are seeking an early childhood program that emphasises holistic development, individualised learning, and a nurturing environment, Ekya Early Years Program is the right choice for your child. Contact us today to learn more and embark on a rewarding educational journey with Ekya!
