Young children are natural explorers. They want to dig, plant, water and watch things grow. At IDEA ELC, we build on that curiosity through a sustainability curriculum designed for nursery-age children. Gulf News featured the launch in its article, Sustainability across the curriculum at innovative early learning centre in Dubai.
Habits and attitudes form early. A child who grows a tomato understands where food comes from. A child who sorts the recycling learns that small actions matter. Our Director, Claire Walker, believes early education plays a central part in shaping people who care for the environment.
Farming is at the centre of our approach. Children plant seeds, water and care for crops, and help to look after animals. They later explore and use the vegetables they have grown. Along the way they learn responsibility, teamwork and patience.
Teachers also introduce bigger ideas in ways young children can grasp. Topics include urban farming, water, energy, recycling and the changing climate. The children have fun, and they get their hands dirty.
Sustainability is woven through our daily teaching. A planting project involves counting seeds, measuring growth and recording changes. It leads to new vocabulary, stories and drawings. This is how the Creative Curriculum works: children investigate real things and build literacy and mathematics as they go. You can read more in our post on why IDEA loves outdoor play.
Come and see our growing garden and outdoor spaces. Arrange a tour of IDEA ELC in Dubai Sports City, or call us on 800 4332 352.