Our Early Learning Center (ages 3-5) is rooted in the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) framework and draws inspiration from approaches like Reggio Emilia.Our ELC program values children’s ideas, questions, and theories.
Play is how our learners make sense of the world, build social connections, and develop a lifelong passion for inquiry. In our open, collaborative environment, students move freely between spaces that nurture creativity, independence, and shared discovery.
Our children co-design their learning, from making independent plans for the day to restructuring learning spaces to accommodate growing inquiries. From imaginative storytelling to scientific theories, learning is always supported by caring adults who encourage inquiry and reflection. Mixed-age group learning creates a community where older and younger students learn with and from each other, strengthening their sense of belonging.
In the ELC, we nurture the whole child – socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually, through a rich, play-based environment. Music, movement, and outdoor exploration are woven naturally into daily experiences. Children’s interests guide group inquiries, with teachers weaving in concepts from the PYP and real-world contexts. By honoring each child’s pace and passion, we lay a strong foundation for confident, open-minded learners.
Occupying a spacious area on the first floor of our South Building, the ELC is an open plan and evolving learning space that is responsive to the children’s inquiries. Featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors, a covered outdoor play area, and flexible furnishings, the ELC space adapts to the learner’s ideas by presenting endless possibilities for exploration.
Because our youngest students can see, interact with, and learn alongside others across campus, they are part of a larger, vibrant community. Parents, too, are key partners in this journey; we actively invite family engagement through regular communication, shared projects, and events that connect learning at school with life at home.
In these critical early years, children discover who they are as learners. They ask questions, collaborate, and express themselves through countless languages such as imaginative play, drawing, building, and dancing. This nurturing, inquiry-driven approach ensures every ELC learner is seen, respected, and excited about the many adventures still to come.
ELC Co-Lead Teacher
ELC Co-Lead Teacher
ELC Turtle
