Lil' jem's early learning childcare centre

Our curriculum is play based and follows the Nova Scotia Early Learning Curriculum Framework.  All children are viewed as resourceful and competent learners. Our program occurs within a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment. Children participate actively with the educators in planning and researching projects and are given opportunities for increased decision making, independence and responsibility. A sense of wonder and an appreciation of the beauty of nature is encouraged. 

Our educators understand child and family development and recognize and meet the developmental and learning needs of each individual child and their family. They complete various professional development hours on a regular basis to keep their child development knowledge current. Most hold a diploma in Early Childhood Education as well as a level 1 or 2 Nova Scotia Early Childhood Classification or are students working toward this. They must complete a Vulnerable Sector check, NS Child Abuse Registry check and Level C Emergency First Aid every 3 years as per government licensing regulations. 

Our environment consists of learning centers that are designed and rotated to encourage a variety of learning activities including: writing, reading, creative art, sensory, discovery, dramatic play, blocks and construction. Whenever possible, natural materials are present for the children to explore. Classrooms are carefully designed to encourage independence by having all materials available to children at their level. Neutral colors, plants, children's artwork and soft music create a warm welcoming environment for everyone who enters.

Our Ruby Room is for children ages 18 to 24 months. There are 6 children in this room with one educator. At this age the children are creating positive associations with potty training, basic self-help skills and social interactions. Even at this young age, educators are fostering independence. They are starting to name shapes and colors and enjoy sensory play. 

Our Diamond Room is for children ages 2 to 3 years. There are up to 12 children in this room with 2 educators and one support staff. The children work on potty training, self- help skills and basic tasks to foster independence. They also work on  getting dressed, problem solving, respecting belongings and other children and social skills. They are starting to make associations with letters and numbers and fine motor development is increasing.

Our Emerald Room is for children ages 3-5 years. There are up to 16 children in this room with 3 educators. The children work on more advanced self-help skills such as zippers, buttons, and serving their own food. They are becoming more capable of respecting their environment and others and making appropriate choices. Social development and forming friendships are increasingly important.