CIS ECE| 8 hours in kindergarten: a time of growth under the lens of immersion
At CIS, we understand that the early years of kindergarten are the starting point for children to explore the world around them. It is a critical period for self-discovery and building confidence.
With the Alberta curriculum, officially recognized by Canada, as our foundation, and the integration of the Reggio Emilia Approach, we create an immersive English-language learning environment that offers each child a safe, loving, and high-quality journey of growth.
Every morning at 8:00, our teachers are already waiting at the classroom door to welcome the children. Each child starts their day full of energy, greeted with warm hugs and kind words.
Each class is led by a full-time homeroom teacher who is a native English speaker, alongside a Chinese Learning Partner to create a stable, supportive, and responsive learning environment.
Additionally, each class is supported by a dedicated caregiver who is responsible for daily care, hygiene, and emotional support. Particularly in the PK2 stage, this helps children smoothly transition from home to school with warmth and care.
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With the assistance of teachers and caregivers, the children enjoy their meals in an orderly manner. Each breakfast is carefully planned by a professional nutrition team, ensuring it meets the nutritional needs for growth while also being delicious and diverse.
In this relaxed and warm atmosphere, children learn to eat independently, follow the rules, and gradually develop a sense of belonging in their "community life."
Circle Time is a golden opportunity each day for both language development and emotional growth.Children sit together, following the teacher to sing songs, listen to stories, and engage in action games.
This time not only enhances their English comprehension and speaking skills but also teaches them to listen, take turns, respond, and collaborate through daily interactions.
During this time, language learning is structured according to age groups:
Children in PK2–PK4 build basic English vocabulary and language sense through games and movement.
In the K5 stage, children move on to a more systematic ELA (English Language Arts) curriculum or literacy training, gradually developing academic English skills.
An immersive English-only environment truly makes language the key for children to communicate with the world.
In specialist classes, children embrace their time with art and music. Whether painting their inner imaginations with brushes or exploring bodily expression through rhythm, they develop a sense of beauty, release emotions, and build a unique connection with the world through creativity.
At CIS, all music and art classes are taught by experienced native teachers. The focus is on "process over product," respecting each child's unique way of expression, while laying the foundation for aesthetic appreciation and expression in future interdisciplinary learning.
In the second half of the morning, the children step out of the classroom and enjoy free movement in the spacious natural campus environment:
The children run, climb, and play on the grass, enhancing their body coordination and spatial awareness while developing teamwork skills.
Children in PK2–PK4 are immersed in the teacher's lively picture book readings, experiencing the rhythm of language while nurturing their imagination and empathy.
Children in PK2–K5 will have Mandarin Chinese lessons, where they develop basic language skills through a diverse approach that includes listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
CIS encourages a bilingual and multicultural education, helping children build a global perspective from an early age.
Meanwhile, caregivers frequently clean the toys and teaching materials that are used, ensuring a tidy, hygienic, and safe learning environment for the children.
A nutritious and balanced lunch is enjoyed in a warm atmosphere. The children practice life skills by independently serving themselves and eating, while also enhancing their language and social skills through natural conversations with their peers.
After lunch, children in PK2–PK4 enter a quiet and gentle nap time. In classrooms with soft lighting and soothing music, they relax and recharge their energy.
For the K5 children who are about to move on to elementary school, a more flexible quiet reading or outdoor activity time is arranged to help them gradually transition to the learning pace of primary school.
After nap time, the children begin their theme-based, interdisciplinary UOI (Units of Inquiry) learning. They explore various fields such as science, art, math, and social studies by engaging with real-life topics through picture books, experiments, building, and creative arts.
This stage integrates the "deep understanding" emphasized in the Alberta curriculum with the "project-based learning" approach from the Reggio Emilia philosophy. It not only helps children build a knowledge framework but also nurtures their awareness of questions and independent thinking skills.
Outdoor exploration and free play continue to be incorporated, stimulating the children's natural curiosity and sustained energy.
As the regular classes end, the children gradually leave for home. Teachers will have a brief conversation with parents, highlighting the day's key moments, ensuring seamless communication between home and school.
For families who choose extended activities, children can participate in CIS's wide range of ASA after-school programs, such as English Storytelling, Creative Arts, Sports Games, and Hands-on Crafts. These activities further expand their interests and enhance their overall development.
At CIS Kindergarten, every time slot, every lesson, and every interaction is based on thoughtful educational design. We focus on five key areas of development: language, cognition, social skills, physical growth, and emotional well-being, helping children achieve holistic and balanced growth.
We not only focus on "what children learn," but also on "how they learn to grow." With the joint support of the homeroom teacher, Learning Partner (LP), and parents, along with a professional caregiving system, we create a safe, loving, and exploratory learning environment for the children.
This is a day at CIS Kindergarten—every moment tells a story, and every step has meaning.
We warmly invite you to schedule a visit to CIS Kindergarten to learn more about our programs and admission details. Join us as we light up the future for your child.
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