The ELC Approach

Program Philosophy

At the ELC we offer a culturally-diverse, inclusive and high quality early learning setting where children and families are seen as capable and valued contributors to their growth and development. Educators, families and children work positively together as co-learners, constructing knowledge together. This partnership is essential in creating a sense of community and belonging where learning is supported through responsive and caring attention to individual stages and interests. Play-based learning is central to our philosophy by offering a program which promotes inquiry and exploration.

Curriculum

The program and curriculum are guided by “How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years” (2014). Children have the opportunity to manipulate, investigate, solve problems and ask questions in our indoor and outdoor classrooms. The educators carefully observe individual children, and from their observations, a challenging and developmentally appropriate learning environment is planned to provide child-led, adult- supported experiences and activities which reflect the interests and learning levels of the children. Each child will be supported and nurtured in all areas of development within a positive learning setting that encourages self-regulation. Pedagogical documentation of each child’s active participation in the program will make their learning visible and will allow families to become involved through discussion and collaboration. Please visit our programs page to learn more.

HDLH

Learn more about How Does Learning Happen HDLH

Our Role as a Demonstration Lab School

The Algonquin College Early Learning Centre holds an important role in the community as a model early learning program designed to demonstrate best practices to students in the Early Childhood Education program (ECE). In the ECE diploma program students access the Early Learning Centre for completion of assignments and some ECE students will be assigned to the Centre to complete one of their practicums. Students have particular objectives (competencies) to accomplish, within their placements, and our experienced educators act as facilitators and mentors. Students are required to abide by the College of Early Childhood of Ontario Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. From time to time, other Algonquin students may have limited access to the Centre, if clearance for a particular project has been obtained from the Manager. In the past, students from Advertising, Broadcasting, Child and Youth Worker, Recreation, Paramedic, Nursing, Dental, Horticulture, Interior Design, Journalism, Performing Arts and Photography programs, have been permitted to use the Centre.

Hours of Operation

Please visit our contact page for complete details about our hours of operation.

Team & Biography

Please visit this page to learn more about who operates the Early Learning Centre.

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