How Does Learning Happen?
At Light Olives Childcare Centre, our programs are guided by Ontario's How Does Learning Happen? framework. This research-based approach recognizes children as competent, capable, curious, and rich in potential.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Everything we do is built on these four interconnected pillars that support children's learning and development.
Belonging
Every child has a sense of belonging when they know they are valued, feel connected, and can contribute as part of a group, community, and the natural world.
- Cultivating authentic, caring relationships
- Creating inclusive environments
- Celebrating diversity and identity
Well-Being
Every child's well-being encompasses both physical and mental health. It is supported when children's rights are respected and they feel cared for, supported, and secure.
- Prioritizing health, safety, and nutrition
- Supporting emotional regulation and resilience
- Encouraging self-care and mindfulness
Engagement
Every child is an active and engaged learner who explores the world with curiosity, wonder, and enthusiasm, making their own discoveries through play and inquiry.
- Fostering curiosity and inquiry-based learning
- Encouraging exploration and discovery
- Supporting problem-solving and critical thinking
Expression
Every child is a capable communicator who expresses themselves in many ways. They have the right to be heard and to participate in decisions that affect them.
- Supporting multiple forms of expression
- Encouraging creativity and imagination
- Amplifying children's voices and choices
Play-Based & Inquiry-Driven Learning
Play is the primary way young children learn about the world. Through play, children develop social skills, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and cognitive understanding.
Our inquiry-driven approach follows children's interests and questions, allowing them to lead their own learning journey with guidance from our qualified RECE educators.
Child-Led Exploration
Children follow their curiosity and interests
Hands-On Experiences
Learning through doing, touching, and creating
Educator as Guide
Supporting, scaffolding, and extending learning
Our Qualified RECE Educators
Our team of Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECE) brings passion, expertise, and dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences every day. They are committed to continuous professional learning and building authentic relationships with children and families.