Our
Philosophy
Our program implements Flight - Alberta's Early Learning and Care Curriculum Framework. Our philosophy is also tied to the Principles and Matters To Be Considered as stated in the Early Learning and Child Care Act. Little Mountaineers Learning Centre is committed to helping children reach their “peak” potential.
We are dedicated to creating a high quality, safe, secure, stimulating environment for children in which they can learn and grow physically, emotionally, creatively, intellectually, spiritually and socially at their own pace; a place where the well-being and development of the child is to be preserved. We strive to support children towards increased confidence and self-esteem by treating them as unique individuals and mighty learners; allowing them to express themselves in various ways is also of primary importance.
Children are encouraged and supported as they are growing to their full individual potential. We provide a safe and caring environment where each child has a sense of belonging, as well as the opportunity to explore and problem solve at their own pace. The abilities of all children are respected and valued.
The focus is on a play-based learning philosophy, geared to each child’s developmental needs and personal interests. Every effort is made to have the child’s time here be the best experience it can be for them, as well as for their parents. In programming activities for the children, the focus is on a play-based learning philosophy, geared to each child’s developmental needs.
Children learn through play and benefit from a structured yet flexible schedule. Activities will include stories, songs, numeracy, fine and gross motor skills, circle time, science, music, imagination and arts/crafts. Preparing your children for their early school years is a priority. They will regularly be exposed to letters, numbers, colours, shapes, name recognition, and new vocabulary. Outdoor time will be provided as often as possible, depending on the weather.
LMLC will help children meet their physical needs by providing developmentally appropriate opportunities to learn and practice physical and gross motor skills, offering nutritious snacks, and providing the opportunity to rest on a daily basis, while always keeping their health and safety in mind.
Through social interactions, children will be given the chance to learn how to function as group members, gain knowledge of appropriate social behaviours, and have the opportunity to practice these skills with the guidance and patience of staff to help them become successful in this area. Group play areas such as the dramatic play, sand table, outdoor play space etc. will allow children to practice their social skills.
Creative needs will be addressed through allowing opportunities for self-expression (i.e., open-ended art projects, telling stories, etc.), opportunities to work on problem solving skills, invention, discovery and experimentation.
Emotional needs will be met by providing a safe and secure environment that allows children to grow and learn at their own pace, thus providing a place for them to feel accepted, respected and to give and receive affection. Allowing opportunities to gain independence, demonstrate initiative, learn and understand how to express anger appropriately and successfully cope with frustrations is also important.
Intellectual needs will be met by providing a setting where children can explore, observe, and know and understand objects and events in their daily environment while continually working on the development of language skills.
Outdoor play is also an exceptionally important part of the program. Our goal is to promote a healthy lifestyle from an early age.
