About

FCCC views all children as competent, capable, and rich in potential. This is reflected in our daily practices. Our inclusive environments are set up to invite children to explore the world around them with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Materials are rich with a focus on natural elements. Through exploration, children are given time and opportunities to test their theories and to problem solve. Educators endeavor to do less directing and more connecting with the children which allows them to gain confidence in their abilities and a budding knowledge of their world. Our curriculum is emergent based. The role of the educators is to follow the lead of the children and to be co-learners while enhancing their current interests through provocations. To support the success of all children, individualized plans will be developed and implemented, as necessary. The day will be balanced
with both indoor/outdoor activity time and quiet/active activities. Through the exploration of their natural world, in all seasons, our hope is that the children build strong connections with nature and gain a greater understanding, appreciation and respect for living and non-living things. The children’s experiences are documented and displayed to make the learning visible and to enhance their current interests.

Following a risk assessment and with close supervision, educators will support the children’s decision to engage in risky play. This type of play assists in the development of self-confidence, resilience, self-awareness, and risk management skills. Health, safety, and nutrition are always at the forefront. We strive to promote wellbeing through healthy and active lifestyles. Nutritious meals and snacks are offered daily in a relaxed child-friendly manner. Posted menus are prepared based on the requirements of the local Public Health and Health Canada documents and take into consideration children’s allergies and/or special dietary requirements. All
indoor and outdoor toys and equipment are checked daily for safety and are cleaned and sanitized regularly. Good hand hygiene is always promoted. Any communicable diseases and/or viruses will be reported to families and the local Public Health, as required, and recommendations will be followed.

Positive interactions and relationship building are another priority of FCCC. This goes hand in hand with supportive guidance. We understand that children will do well if they can. It is our role as educators to help the children develop the skills and provide them with opportunities to do well. Through rich relationships with educators, the children in our care learn that they can count on us. This helps them to self-regulate and feel a sense of belonging and connection to our programs. Our work as educators is to also develop strong relationships with all families. They are an integral part of the program and the most important influence in the child’s learning, development, health, and well-being. We welcome families into the programs, invite their perspective, embrace their diverse cultures and backgrounds, and will provide them with opportunities for meaningful participation (i.e.daily conversations, viewing and discussing documentation, special visitors etc.).

FCCC encourages and supports educators to participate in professional development. As the early learning field continues to focus on the educator as also being competent and capable, our educators are life-long learners and professionally obligated to devote themselves to continuous professional learning. FCCC has historically provided many in-house opportunities as one way to support this. Community partners also play a very important role in FCCC programs. This may take place as other agencies support our educators, children, and families. FCCC is very fortunate to be housed within Limestone District School Board (LDSB) schools. This allows us many opportunities to actively participate in school functions which in turn promotes a sense of belonging and community. Through these essential partnerships, we endeavor to instill within the children in our care, a cooperative spirit, and an appreciation of diversity.