Discovering the Philosophies and Values at Little Sunshine ELC Preston
At Little Sunshine Early Learning Centre (ELC), our mission goes beyond just education—we focus on nurturing every child’s curiosity, creativity, and overall development. Rooted in our philosophies and values, we aim to create an environment that not only educates but also empowers children to become confident, independent, and lifelong learners.
The Reggio Emilia Approach: At the Heart of Our Philosophy
One of the core inspirations at Little Sunshine ELC is the Reggio Emilia approach, a child-centred philosophy that emphasises the importance of the child’s voice in their learning journey. Under this framework, children are viewed as active participants in their education, and teachers act as guides and facilitators. This approach is reflected in the way our classrooms are set up to foster exploration and discovery.
Key aspects of the Reggio Emilia Approach:
Child-led Learning: Children’s interests and curiosity are the foundation of our daily activities. This allows them to explore topics that naturally capture their imagination, making learning enjoyable and relevant.
Collaborative Environment: Learning is a shared experience. At Little Sunshine, we encourage collaboration between children, parents, and educators, creating a strong sense of community and belonging.
Creativity and Expression: We provide various materials and activities that allow children to express themselves creatively. Whether through art, building projects, or imaginative play, children are encouraged to experiment and explore new ideas.
Building Strong Relationships and Community
At Little Sunshine, we believe in the importance of relationships—not just between children and their peers, but also between families, educators, and the broader community. We work closely with parents to ensure that each child’s individual needs are met, and we foster strong communication to keep families involved in their child’s learning journey.
We also encourage children to develop strong interpersonal skills, learning to communicate, cooperate, and build friendships that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Holistic Development and Play-Based Learning
We understand that children thrive when they are allowed to learn through play. Our play-based learning approach encourages children to explore their surroundings, experiment with new ideas, and develop cognitive, social, and emotional skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Benefits of Play-Based Learning at Little Sunshine ELC:
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Children are provided with opportunities to engage in activities that require them to think critically, solve problems, and make decisions independently.
Emotional Development: Through guided play, children learn to navigate emotions, build resilience, and understand their feelings and those of others.
Physical Development: Activities that involve movement, coordination, and physical exploration are a key part of our curriculum, ensuring that children develop gross and fine motor skills.
A Safe and Inclusive Environment for All
Creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment is a priority at Little Sunshine. We ensure that every child feels valued and respected, regardless of their background or abilities. Our educators are trained to create a nurturing environment where diversity is celebrated, and each child’s unique strengths and abilities are recognised and supported.
Embracing Nature and Sustainability
At Little Sunshine ELC, we believe that children should learn to appreciate and care for the natural world. Our programs include opportunities for outdoor learning, where children can engage with nature, develop an understanding of sustainability, and learn the importance of protecting the environment. From gardening projects to nature walks, we aim to instil a love for the environment in every child.
Join the Little Sunshine Community
Choosing the right early learning centre for your child is an important decision. At Little Sunshine ELC, our commitment to providing a holistic, child-centred education ensures that your child will thrive in a supportive, nurturing environment. We invite you to learn more about our philosophies and values and to see firsthand how we can help your child grow, learn, and succeed.
Interested in Learning More?
Explore more about our programs and philosophies by visiting our website or booking a tour today. At Little Sunshine ELC, we are here to support your child’s journey to becoming a confident, capable, and happy individual.
