Learning and Curriculum
Our curriculum is designed in collaboration with all educators, children, families and community and reflects the current interests, learning goals and developmental needs of the children. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), WA Kindy Curriculum and center philosophy guide our curriculum decision making to ensure quality learning and teaching, with play based learning being fundamental to all experiences.
At Kind, we also draw inspiration from a blend of theorists and pedagogies that shape our approach. We follow The Curiosity Approach, integrating elements of Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Waldorf Steiner and Emmi Pikler.
–Reggio Emilia approach founded by Loris Malaguzzi, is an educational philosophy that originated in Reggio Emilia, Italy, and is centered around the idea that children are capable, curious, and natural learners. This child-centered approach emphasises hands-on, experiential learning where children are encouraged to explore, question, and discover through play and creative expression.
–The Montessori approach to learning inspires children towards a lifelong love of learning, by following their natural developmental trajectory. Children become confident, responsible, independent learners, who trust in their own abilities. The inclusivity and positive social development facilitated by the Montessori programme forms the basis for a persistent attachment to learning and knowledge.
–Waldorf Steiner education is a unique teaching style that emphasizes holistic student development. This approach is based on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, an anthropologist from Germany. The goal of a Waldorf education is to develop students’ conceptual, artistic, and practical skills, focusing on their imagination and creativity. A key feature of Waldorf Steiner education is its emphasis on the development of the whole child. This approach recognises that children have different learning styles and abilities and must provide a learning environment that addresses these differences. Waldorf Steiner education also emphasises the importance of play in early childhood education and encourages children to learn through play.
– The Pikler Approach is a kind, respectful and child-centered approach. Developed by Emmi Pikler, a Hungarian pediatrician, it emphasises authentic, trusting relationships between caregivers and children. It focuses on emotionally satisfying interactions, naturally paced motor development, free self-directed movement and uninterrupted play.
Each child’s learning is documented through a cycle of planning and your child’s learning journey is captured via our digital platform, OWNA, which parents can access at any time. We also document children’s developmental milestones and complete a summative assessment half yearly to assure appropriate goals are being set and learning outcomes are being met. These assessments can also be provided to the child’s school and/or teacher when they transition to provide them with an overview of how your child has engaged and developed whilst at our early years center, linking to the framework and curriculum.
We believe in a mixed age approach to learning, meaning our center is free flow for all children to interact and engage together. Our curriculum, learning environments and teaching strategies are adapted to foster individual children’s age, development, goals and interests.
Toddlers (18months to 3 years)
We foster friendships among our toddlers to enhance their confidence and promote cooperation and sharing skills.
By observing each child’s interests, we tailor our program to support key learning areas, including language development, creativity, fine and gross motor skills, sensory experiences and social skills. We also begin exploring cultural awareness, and environmental understanding.
Pre-Kindy (3 – 4 years )
Our Pre-Kindy program at Kind Early Learning focuses on preparing your child for their next steps, by fostering key developmental skills through play-based learning. We emphasise building confidence and independence, encourage problem-solving and creativity. We also work on enhancing vocabulary, listening skills, and introduce early literacy and numeracy concepts.
Kindy (4 – 5 years )
In Western Australia, if your child turns 4 on or before 30th of June they are eligible to attend kindergarten. As attending Kindergarten at a school (private or government) is not mandatory, you can choose if they attend at a school, early years center or both!
Our Kindy program at Kind is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework and WA Kindy Curriculum and is designed to equip your child with the skills and mindset needed for lifelong learning. We empower each child to embrace their individual learning style as they engage in experiences that explore language, mathematics, inquiry, creativity, motor skills, sensory experiences, cultural identity, and environmental awareness. We also Introduce gentle routines that help children feel secure and ready for a more formal school environment.