Our Approach
Guided by respect.
Inspired by children.
At First Place Early Learning Centre Inc., we value each child for who they are, recognizing their individual strengths, interests, ideas, and unique ways of learning and exploring. Our approach is grounded in strong relationships, respect for children and families, and environments that invite exploration, creativity, and meaningful learning.
Relationships & Belonging
Children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and connected.
Our educators take time to build meaningful relationships with each child, creating a strong sense of belonging and trust.
Learning Through Play & Inquiry
Through play, children explore, discover, and develop new understandings.
Children are encouraged to explore their interests, ask questions, test ideas, solve problems, and make discoveries through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
Responsive Environments
Our environments are thoughtfully designed to respond to children's interests, ideas, and development.
Materials and experiences evolve as children's thinking and curiosity grow.
Educators as Reflective Professionals
Our educators are knowledgeable, caring, and reflective professionals.
They observe, listen, document, and reflect on children's learning to thoughtfully extend ideas and experiences.
Guided by the How Does Learning Happen? document
Our approach is guided by Ontario's How Does Learning Happen? Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years, which recognizes children as competent, capable of complex thinking, curious, and rich in potential.
Cultivating authentic relationships and connectedness.
Nurturing healthy development and emotional security.
Active, creative, inquiry-based learning through play.
Communication in all forms, languages, and materials.
Source: Ontario Ministry of Education. (2014). How Does Learning Happen? Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years.