When mums and dads entrust their children into the care of Caroline Springs Little Flyers, the Centre Director Evet Beshara believes that it isn’t just so they can go to work but to ensure their child’s optimum start on life’s learning journey.
“Our curriculum covers babies to kindergarten and school readiness, and we focus on learning about health, the environment and sustainability, self-esteem and general happiness,” says Evet.
“A quality trait of our Centre and educational program is the Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum that places great value on the environment – both indoors and out.
“We view both play spaces as promoters of life’s learning, quality communication, and strong relationships. The Reggio Emilia approach is led by a child’s curiosity, connection to the world around them, and the belief that children have the ability to develop their own potential – values we hold close to our heart.
“We don’t underestimate the value of the children’s learning by being outside, with outdoor play spaces readily accessible to all children throughout the day, and their design complementing and extending on indoor activities.
“We know that children who play in natural environments begin to develop appropriate risk-taking skills, solve their own problems and use their senses to explore and develop connections with nature. Outdoor play also evokes wonder and curiosity, and enhances cognitive, physical, social and emotional development.”
Evet adds that as Little Flyers children begin to understand concepts such as recycling and water conservation, they’re on the path to being good custodians of the planet. This is underscored by the Centre’s use of natural and recycled materials as often as possible.
The outdoor program is enriched by vegie and herb gardens, which require care and attention from the children, and pique curiosity about nutrition, colours and smells, and a health-centred lifestyle.
“And when harvest time arrives,” says Evet, “the gardens provide nutritious produce used in our seasonal menus which are endorsed by Nutrition Australia.
“At Little Flyers, our children really do learn and play in a wonderful environment!”
