What will my child actually do all day? It is one of the most common questions parents ask when they visit us. This post walks through our curriculum at IDEA ELC, from the baby room to KG2, so you can see how learning builds from one year to the next.
Every class at IDEA Early Learning Center follows the Creative Curriculum. Because the same approach runs through every age group, children do not have to start again each year. Teachers build on what each child already knows and can do.
In the first three years, relationships come first. Our Babies, Infants and Nursery classes follow the Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers and Twos. Teachers build warm, responsive bonds with each child and work closely with families.
Learning happens through daily routines and play. Children explore soft play, sensory equipment and messy play. They listen to stories and songs, and they have a cosy, quiet area to rest when they need it. Small groups, with ratios from 1:3 for babies to 1:6 for two-year-olds, mean every child is known well.
In Preschool, the day gains a gentle structure. Children move between choice time, small-group activities and whole-group meetings. A typical morning looks like this.
| Time | Activity |
| 8:00 to 8:45 | Arrival and choice time |
| 8:45 to 9:10 | Literacy or mathematics activity |
| 9:10 to 9:40 | Whole-group meeting time, or Arabic two days a week |
| 9:40 to 10:00 | Soft play gym |
| 10:00 to 10:20 | Snack |
| 10:30 to 11:00 | Outdoor exploration |
| 11:00 to 11:45 | Literacy time |
| 11:45 to 12:30 | Lunch |
| 12:30 to 1:00 | Whole-group meeting time |
In KG1 and KG2, the day runs from 8:00am to 2:45pm. Children are ready for longer periods of focused learning, balanced with plenty of movement and play. Each day includes three exploration blocks, where children work individually and in small groups.
Children also have Arabic twice a week and social studies once a week. KG2 adds a daily focused teaching and library session to prepare children for Grade 1. See the full Pre-KG, KG1 and KG2 timetables.
Our curriculum reaches well beyond desks and carpets. Children use the soft play gym and go outside every day. Our playgrounds have space for trikes, climbing, mud play and a growing garden. We also provide for music, art, Arabic and French.
UAE culture and values are part of daily life at IDEA ELC. Children learn about the country they live in, and about one another’s cultures.
Children develop at different rates, and our teaching reflects that. Staff give children plenty of opportunities to follow their own interests, while making sure each child is challenged. We support children with additional needs, children learning English and children who are ready for more stretch. Read about our inclusive teaching.
By the end of KG2, children are confident, curious and ready for primary school. Our curriculum map and transition page explains how we prepare children and families for the move.
We would love to show you our classrooms. Arrange a tour of IDEA ELC in Dubai Sports City, or call us on 800 4332 352.