CALEDON EAST CHILDREN'S PLACE
About Our Curriculum
Caledon East Children’s Place follows the “Ontario Pedagogy for the Early Years, How Does Learning Happen?” and “The Ontario Early Years Framework”. Our program also aligns with elements of a Reggio Emilia approach to learning. The goals set for children are consistent with the Four Foundations, Ministry of Education pedagogy and principles.
These include:
- BELONGING: Cultivating authentic relationships and connections
- WELL BEING: Nurturing healthy development and well being
- ENGAGEMENT: Creating contexts for learning through exploration, play and inquiry
- EXPRESSION: Fostering communication and expression in all forms
For more information about our curriculum see our Parent Handbook ‘Program Statement’ or book a tour!
OUR CURRICULUM
Teacher-Child Interactions and Experiences
At CECP, we prioritize meaningful, child-initiated and educator-supported experiences. Central to our approach is the belief that positive, responsive interactions among children, educators, families, and staff form the foundation of a thriving learning environment.
A major component to the program at CECP is teacher-child interactions and the importance of the teacher as a co-learner alongside the children. Teachers and children are play partners which allows for a supportive environment. Teachers also take on the role as researchers as they observe each child in their group and provide opportunities for children to express their initiatives and make choices. During play situations, teachers follow children’s leads. They also look for opportunities to gradually challenge the children by introducing new ideas or concepts, while remaining within the interests of the children.
OUR CURRICULUM
How Children Learn Best at CECP
By integrating the Emergent Curriculum with the Reggio Emilia approach, we foster a learning environment that respects and nurtures each child’s individuality, curiosity, and potential. This thoughtful combination offers a responsive, child-centered foundation that supports development in meaningful and age-appropriate ways. Our approach promotes the social, emotional, and cognitive growth of every child, while also building strong, collaborative relationships between families, educators, and the broader community.
OUR CURRICULUM
The Environment as the Third Teacher
At CECP, we believe that children learn best not only from their teachers and peers, but also from the environment around them—this is why we call it the “third teacher.”
The classroom and learning spaces are thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, invite exploration, and support independence. This means you’ll often see natural light, open-ended materials, displays of children’s work, cozy spaces to read or think quietly, and areas that reflect children’s interests.
Everything in the environment is chosen with intention—to support your child’s learning, creativity, and well-being. We encourage families to be part of this “third teacher” by sharing ideas, bringing in materials, and helping us make our space reflect the lives and cultures of the children in our care.
OUR CURRICULUM
The Daily Routine
At Caledon East Children’s Place, our day includes a mix of group activities, outdoor play, hands-on projects, and free exploration. Children are encouraged to make choices, express themselves, and learn through play. Balanced routines—like self-serve lunch, quiet rest time, and family-style groupings—help build independence, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging in a caring and supportive environment.
OUR CURRICULUM
Child Observation and Assessment
At Caledon East Children’s Place, we observe and assess children in ways that honour their unique learning journeys. Rooted in the Reggio Emilia approach and Emergent Curriculum, our educators closely observe how children play, explore, and interact to understand their interests and developmental needs. We use tools like the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), the ELECT Continuum of Development, and Assessment for Quality Improvement (AQI) to guide our planning and support growth in all areas. Each month, families receive a portfolio featuring a special “A-HA” moment—a meaningful snapshot of their child’s progress, discovery, or breakthrough. These insights help us celebrate each child’s achievements and keep families connected to their learning journey.
