Reading, writing and mathematics are the foundations of everything children go on to learn. At IDEA ELC, we start building those foundations early, and we do it through play. Our aim is simple: children who love books, enjoy numbers and feel confident as learners.
The early years are when children’s language and thinking develop fastest. A child who hears lots of words, stories and songs builds a strong vocabulary. A child who counts, sorts and compares in play begins to think mathematically. These early experiences make learning to read, write and calculate much easier later on.
The Creative Curriculum has a strong literacy focus, even with our youngest children. In our baby and toddler rooms, literacy means talking, singing, rhymes and sharing picture books. Teachers name objects, describe what is happening and respond to every sound and gesture.
Each classroom has its own age-appropriate library. Books are within reach, so children can choose them freely. We want every child to love reading long before they can read the words themselves.
As children grow, our teaching becomes more focused. The Creative Curriculum sets out five literacy objectives, and our teachers plan for each of them.
In Preschool, children have a literacy or mathematics activity each morning and a dedicated literacy time. In KG1 and KG2, they have a full hour of literacy exploration every day, working individually and in small groups. KG2 children also have a daily focused teaching and library session.
Young children meet mathematics everywhere. They count the steps to the playground, share out snacks and build towers taller than themselves. Our teachers use these moments to introduce mathematical language and ideas.
The Creative Curriculum covers four areas of early mathematics.
In KG1 and KG2, children have an hour of mathematics exploration every day. They use blocks, counters, puzzles and games to solve real problems, and they explain their thinking to others.
Children learn to read and count at different rates. Our small-group teaching lets teachers match activities to each child. We use the GOLD assessment tool to observe children and plan their next steps. Children who are ready to move ahead are challenged, and children who need more time receive it.
We also support children who are learning English as an additional language. Read more about our inclusive teaching.
Parents are a child’s first teachers. These simple habits make a real difference.
We share your child’s progress regularly through the Seesaw app, so you always know what they are working on.
To see how we teach literacy and numeracy, arrange a tour of IDEA ELC in Dubai Sports City. You can also read about our curriculum or call us on 800 4332 352.