Preschool

At Olive Grove Preschool and Toddler Program we view children as competent, capable of complex thinking, curious and rich in potential. Through the guidance of “How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years (2014)”, we are able to provide a high quality, inclusive program for children and families. By embedding the Four Foundations of “How Does Learning Happen?” belonging, well-being, engagement and expression into our program, we can ensure that the “whole” child is nourished and can develop to his/her full potential.

For each child, we work to ensure they will feel a sense of belonging by cultivating authentic relationships and connections with their educators, peers and the environment around them. By establishing and having secure and loving relationships with their educators, children will feel safe to explore and learn about the world around them. A strong sense of belonging will also contribute to their social, emotional and communication development.

We provide each child with guidance and skills to help them develop a healthy sense of self and well-being. By giving each child the opportunity to explore their own capabilities we help build their self-confidence while they learn new self-help skills and routines. Through a variety of gross motor activities, our natural playground environment and exploration of our larger community, our children are able to develop a greater appreciation for their own body’s abilities as well as the environment around them. Nutritious meals and snacks also ensure each child is provided with what they need to move through the day with health and energy. As all children are competent and capable, they are also encouraged to self-serve their meals when appropriate, building on very important self-help skills. Our children are also provided with a rest period to help them recharge and be ready for the rest of their day.

Through a balance of child initiated and teacher-initiated activities our children become engaged learners who explore the world with body, mind and senses. Our goal is to facilitate daily experiences where children are engaged in creative, active and meaningful exploration, play and inquiry. Our program uniquely integrates Arabic and Islamic Education (short Surahs from the Quran, Islamic mannerism, stories about our Prophets, and duas) into our daily activities and routines as well.

Our children are encouraged to meaningfully express themselves. Whether it is through verbal or non-verbal cues, value is placed on respecting how each child is able to express and self-regulate themselves. We focus on listening, responding to and building on children’s conversations. Our program exposes our children to early literacy materials from other parts of the world. By having a variety of open-ended materials that inspire creative play between the children, we are able to foster genuine and meaningful conversations between peers and educators.