Early Years
DSC International School Early Years Program is designed to nurture curious and creative learners who are eager to learn independently and collaboratively within a play and inquiry based environment.
The Pre-Grade 1 Program is based on the Canadian (Ontario) Curriculum. The program is designed based on research that highlights the necessity of students learning through play and inquiry by developing skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative thinking; language acquisition, literacy and mathematics; and the development of social, physical and emotional skills.
At DSC, students begin developing hands-on STEAM skills during our Pre-Grade 1 program. By exposing students to STEAM and skills such as coding during early years, we foster curiosity and other key skills that our youngest students will need to be successful throughout Elementary and beyond. Additionally, DSC offers a full day program for students aged 4 and above, which prepares our students for a successful transition into Grade 1. Our full day program is not only filled with fun activities but is a great benefit for families with children in different grades.
Specialized Learning
DSC International School is committed to well-rounded learning that teaches the whole child. Early Years students have dedicated time to study Physical Education, Health, Music, and International Language (Chinese, French, or Japanese) with specialized program teachers.
Learning Framework
In addition to the specialized learning times scheduled, the school day is broken down into four learning blocks. During each learning block, Pre-Grade 1 students engage in four areas of learning referred to as the
“Four Frames.”
Download our Elementary Guide brochure
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Play-based learning
Play-based learning is an approach that maximizes a child’s natural curiosity and exuberance. It recognizes that play is essential to a child’s optimal development.
ItThis approach acknowledges that children are inherently curious, and they are capable of complex thinking. Each student brings tremendous energy, potential, and their own experiences into the classroom each day, and that creates such a positive and engaging experience for all.
The learning environment that we have established plays a key role in what and how a child learns. Our supportive teachers and educational assistants build a caring, dynamic learning environment that allows each student to learn, share, and thrive academically and socially.
STEAM in Early Years
In the Early Years, we believe that it is never too early to instill a passion for combining building and creativity skills by using a variety of materials and technology. Our focus is to introduce students to foundational concepts found in Science, Technology, and Mathematics by applying simple engineering skills to creatively build on ideas that solve problems. By engaging young students in ideas that capture their interests, students have the opportunity to explore concepts that will later evolve into a more intricate and fascinating world of STEAM.
Community Connections in Early Years
In the Early Years, we also believe that it is important for students to orient themselves within a larger community. The importance of community is presented to our students in their first years at DSC. Within the DSC community, our Early Years students interact with older Elementary students through our “Reading Buddies” Program. By connecting with others, younger DSC students develop a deeper understanding of how members of the same community can help each other learn and grow. Additionally, under the supervision of their teachers, students explore the community within close proximity to DSC’s campus to learn about different places and people that help the communities around them thrive. Furthermore, Early Years classrooms welcome members of the community to come in and speak with our students so that they can get a deeper understanding of the larger communities around them.
Curriculum
Our Early Years curriculum follows the Ontario (Canada) Curriculum, please refer to the official Ontario Education website for more information.
Timetable Sample
