The Thinking Garden Early Childhood Centres are Licensed Group Programs for children 2.5 to 6 years of age, offering a nature based, play based, enriched preschool curriculum.
We have two locations, located in Nanoose Bay and Qualicum Beach BC.
Specialized Education
The Thinking Garden is inspired by, and creates a learning curriculum based upon a fusion of three worldly respected, traditional teaching philosophies:
Waldorf
An early childhood philosophy which began in Germany, focusing on strengthening a child’s affinity with the natural world; based upon the importance of nature, movement, fantasy and play.
Its desire is to nourish and protect a child’s inborn sense of awe, wonder and imagination.
“Accept the child with reverence, educate them with love, send them forth in freedom.” – Rudolf Steiner
Montessori
A practical educational style that began in Italy, which encourages a child’s innate desire to learn. This early academic curriculum respects the intelligence and individuality of each child; allowing them the freedom to explore and express themselves in their own way, at their own pace, while being supported and challenged. The child develops intellectual curiosity, confidence, independence, self-respect, and respect for the world around them.
“A child’s work is to create the person she will become… We are helping the child to help themselves” – Maria Montessori
Reggio Emilia
An Italian educational approach created based the principles of active curiosity, respect, responsibility, relationship and community building through self-guided exploration and discovery in a supportive environment. The curriculum is emergent & flowing; seasonally based on nature, and the children’s own interests. We love loose parts!
“Children are endowed with a hundred languages through which they can express their ideas” – Loris Malaguzzi
“Courtney was so amazing with our kiddos, she was their & our favourite teacher. Our girls always raved about how kind she was, and how they couldn’t wait to see her at school. If you’re looking for a reliable, safe, and incredible teacher— Courtney is absolutely the right person to fill that role.”
- Kolbie
At The Thinking Garden
Children and families are celebrated, honoured and empowered. Our program focuses on building strong and positive relationships. Our curriculum is based upon a deep respect for nature and our environment, for ourselves, our families, our friends, our community, for education, and for our unlimited potential and opportunities.
We advocate a lifelong love of learning; we offer inspired, inclusive, and enriched developmentally appropriate activities to nurture each child’s early physical, cognitive, emotional, social & spiritual (moral) growth.
A Warm and Welcoming Space
While our programs encourage your little ones to become better independent learners, we believe in learning together in a warm, welcoming, and inclusive space.
A Love for The Outdoors
Our program strongly believes in nature as the third teacher. We have incorporated outdoor education as a regular part of our curriculum. With our enchanting outdoor spaces, 5 acres of forested space to explore at our Nanoose location, and our favourite beaches in walking distance; children are encouraged to learn, play, and love their outdoor surroundings.