At Nest, we provide a rich, nurturing environment for children’s cognitive, social, emotional and physical growth. Driven by the belief that children are to be respected as the unique individuals that they are, and I work in partnership with families to challenge and support each child at the level that they need. I believe that young children should be active learners and develop at their own unique pace, with the support of parents and me, their teacher.

Focused on the philosophy that children, their families, and the community can all benefit from a high-quality curriculum in a home-like atmosphere. Long-term projects and open-ended discussions bring together language activities, social studies, science, math, dramatic play and creative arts, providing children with an environment which encourages exploration and discovery. Together we question, investigate, problem-solve and learn. It’s up to educators and parents to shape their environment and experiences in meaningful and positive ways.

It’s important for children to become problem solvers, independent thinkers and to learn life skills.

I teach with a philosophy inspired by the combination of the Reggio Emilia and Montessori early childhood education approaches. I’ve adopted many aspects of these two philosophies. Here are just a few:

• The development of verbal, motor, social and critical-thinking skills through a developmentally-appropriate play-based curriculum.

• Collaboration with parents, teachers and students on some longer term activities.

• A connection with nature is an essential part of development! Sunshine, fresh-air, and observing animals, insects and plants on a regular basis daily can benefit a child’s development in many ways.

• An open, sun-filled and engaging environment creates the perfect setting for a child to learn while discovering and engaging each of their senses.

• Documentation of each child’s explorations and process of learning.