Natural, structured learning - guided by expertly trained and certified teachers
3 – 4 Years
Older toddlers continue to work on their soft skills while also being guided in the academic skills they will need to start reading, writing, and increase their vocabulary. Teachers are guiding the older toddlers through nearly 50 skills across our 6 domains and tracking nearly 200 skill indicators.
4 – 5 Years
Children continue to be guided in the executive functioning skills they need to be able to complete tasks all while learning through hands-on and engaging activities. Big school preparedness is emphasised. Teachers are guiding the children through nearly 50 skills across our 6 domains and tracking nearly 260 skill indicators.
5 – 6 Years
Children are guided in the literacy and numeracy skills they need for big school all while building 21st-century skills like communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking. Teachers are guiding the children through nearly 50 skills across our 6 domains and tracking around 240 skill indicators.
Physical development and wellness awareness
Within the Kipinä curriculum, physical activity and a healthy lifestyle are an integral part of children's physical and cognitive development. Modern scientific research shows that children who lead active lifestyles and develop healthy habits are happier and progress through developmental milestones more quickly and successfully. This holistic approach also has a positive impact on their academic achievement.
Cognitive Development through Exploration and Play
Play and exploration provide a platform for supporting the development of children’s literacy and numeracy skills as well as capitalising on children’s natural curiosities and exuberance with the world around them. Early childhood is not only a period of amazing physical growth, it is also a time of remarkable mental development.
Literacy, communication and language
Children are active learners in the process of making meaning of the world that surrounds them. How they choose to communicate affects their identities and is influenced by language. Kipinä offers a socially and intellectually engaging environment where children’s communicative practices, languages, literacies and literate identities are valued and supported.
Mathematical skills
Mathematical skills enable children to solve problems and develop an understanding of time, numbers, patterns, shapes, and spatial concepts. At Kipinä, children learn to analyze the information they encounter in their daily lives, make informed decisions, and justify their reasoning. A strong mathematical foundation prepares them to understand more complex mathematical concepts and develop logical thinking skills throughout their future school education.
Relationships and character development
Kipinä supports every child's social and emotional development in ways that allow each child to form positive relationships with others. In providing a safe and caring learning environment where a child's sense of self is nurtured, opportunities for the development of one's character is a natural progression and intended outcome of the program.
Cultural awareness and diversity
Kipinä seeks to provide an inclusive environment that celebrates the uniqueness of every child. In this caring environment, children will be nurtured to develop a deep understanding of the culture to which they belong, while instilling an appreciation and acceptance for the diversity of cultures that exist in our global society. Children will become socially responsible citizens sensitive to equitable and democratic practices that deepen their sense of cultural identity.
Innovation Built In
Our curriculum, the skills and learning outcomes, and all six domains, support 21st century skill development. Children build their abilities to innovate and problem solve — using the 6 C's — through teacher questioning and activities every day!