Big box daycare
The other day I was showing the CBC video from our Open House last month to a friend and we noticed some comments underneath that I hadn’t seen before.
Some of the commentators were concerned that the convenience of Buddings was part of a “big box,” “corporate” daycare model, where the only priority is to generate returns for the investors. Their fears in this regard were around the lack of a stimulating programme, and the thought that the kids would be placated, but not necessarily engaged, with the provided activities.
The comments section for the article is long-since closed, so I guess I missed my chance to engage them in conversation, but maybe they’ll find my blog… 🙂
At Buddings, the convenience for families is built into an educational, engaging, environmentally-themed curriculum. We follow the emergent curriculum model, where the lessons for the day stem from the children’s own interests. There is a lot of free play involved, but it’s not a place where the teachers supervise children from the sidelines. The teachers are part of the play. Evaluating the action, watching for opportunities to expand the play, and supporting the kids in developing the area of interest. It’s a neat concept, challenging to implement and explain, but, luckily, Jenny‘s an expert. (She’s even taught ECE’s on the topic!)
Documentation is a key element in the process, and as we get going, you’ll start seeing exhibit boards, idea webs, and other signs of the thought lines our Buddies are taking as they experiment, act out, and learn. We’ll keep you posted with our newsletter, and Art of the Week features, and Jenny’s suggesting special nights where families can stop by and check out the progress. Should be fun!
