LEARNING TREE

Learning Philosophy

Balanced Curriculum

Children learn best through play whether it is teacher guided or child initiated. Willowbrae Academy curriculums are designed to create learning opportunities through interactions, relationships, environments and experiences. We believe that a balanced curriculum in all areas of development will allow children to maximize their learning potential.

Learning Philosophy

The Outside Classroom

The outside environment is an extension of the classroom. Outdoor play develops motor skills, contributes to cognitive and social-emotional development, and builds an appreciation for the outdoors. At Willowbrae, children have opportunities to explore the community and surrounding resources as part of the curriculum.

Learning Philosophy

Hands-on Activities

Learning by doing. Hands-on activities involve children in a total learning experience which enhances their ability to think critically. Children engage their minds and bodies in sensory experiences while listening, talking and making their own discoveries.

Learning Philosophy

Programs

Willowbrae Academy recognizes children’s learning needs are diverse. We believe in providing programs that meet the needs of every child in our care. Staff expose children to new experiences and skills that will help then grow as individuals and reach their full potential. Children participate in fun activities that enrich, strengthen and expand their learning.

Learning Philosophy

Physical Environment

Our Academies are designed by professionals who focus on a child’s needs. Willowbrae provides children with a safe, healthy, comfortable, flexible, and child-sized environment that supports their physical, emotional, social and cognitive development.

Learning Philosophy

Integrated Programs

All learning is connected. Integrated programs allow children to add other elements to existing activities. Our programs are based on a child’s interest and designed to stimulate curiosity and possibilities.

Learning Philosophy

Every child is a unique individual and we understand that all children grow and develop at their own pace. Our Academies help a child find their sense of self and promote the development of values, morals, emotions and intelligence. We encourage multiculturalism, inclusion, independence, self-confidence and respect for oneself and others.

Learning Philosophy

Family Centered, Community Based

At Willowbrae we firmly believe that to effectively meet children’s needs, staff must work closely with families and communities. Teaching and learning is not an isolated endeavour, rather teamwork involving positive interaction between children, staff, parents and community.

Learning Areas

Physical Health

Children experience safe and caring environments where physical health and positive lifestyle choices are promoted and encouraged. Children explore body and movement, develop gross and fine motor skills, learn about food and nutrition, and are taught to take responsibility for personal care.

Learning Areas

Cognitive Abilities

Children experience open and flexible environments where playful exploration and problem solving are encouraged. Children test their limits, learn the dynamics of working together, and develop different strategies to identify and work out problems. Children also learn to question, observe and inquire about the world around them.

Learning Areas

Emotional Skills

Children experience a safe and caring environment where their emotional health, positive self-identities, and sense of belonging are fostered. Children develop a sense of self and a sense of others. Children learn to form trusting, respectful relationships.

Learning Areas

Communication, Language and Literacy

Children experience intellectually, socially and culturally engaging environments where their speech, language, literacy, social communication skills are valued and supported. These skills are developed through classroom activities, peer interaction, and active play.

Learning Areas

Imagination and Creativity

Children are exposed to open and flexible environments where imagination and creativity are encouraged through dramatic play, music, dance, arts and crafts. Children create imaginary scenarios in which they explore new possibilities. Children are encouraged to create something new and original.

Learning Areas

Social Skills and Diversity

Children are exposed to a socially inclusive and culturally sensitive environment, where social responsibility is nurtured. Children are taught to respect diversity and appreciate their own uniqueness and that of others. Children learn how to be emphatic, co-operative, helping, and how to develop friendships.

Learning Roots

Equipment & Materials

• Age and developmentally appropriate equipment and programs
• Daily mandatory cleaning
• Regular inspection and maintenance
• Monthly classroom programming allowances

Learning Roots

Quality Assurance

• Willowbrae Quality Assurance Program
• Exceeds government regulations
• Early Childhood Educator employee performance reviews
• Regular Director employee performance reviews

Learning Roots

Parent Communication

• Parent group
• Parent meetings
• Parent/teacher meetings
• Braeview communication software
• Daily reports
• Newsletters

Learning Roots

Facilities

• Biometric finger print access
• Large classrooms with lots of natural light
• Secure outdoor playgrounds
• Liveview HD cameras
• Professional cleaning staff
• On-site kitchens and chefs

Learning Roots

Early Childhood Educators (ECE)

• Highly qualified and experienced professionals
• CPR and first-aid certified
• Abide by the ECE Code of Ethics

Learning Roots

Student Assessment

• Daily reporting
• Progress reports

Learning Roots

Affiliates

• Hearing and Speech Pathologists
• Child Psychologists
• Early Intervention specialists
• Early Intensive Behaviour Intervention professionals
• Nutritionists and Dietitians
• Occupational Therapists
• Fitness Experts and Health specialists
• Hal Johnson & Joanne McLeod of BodyBreak
• Social Workers
• Physiotherapists
• Pediatricians

Learning Roots

ECE Training & Development

• Staff meetings
• Early Childhood Educator professional development
• Ongoing Willowbrae Academy training