At Carp Co-operative Nursery School, children have the opportunity to experience a variety of activities that help them learn and grow. We strive to provide a positive school experience and to help support parents when it comes to early childhood education. The Province of Ontario licenses the school through the Ministry of Education. Our goals for the program are based on their pedagogy, “How Does Learning Happen?”. In addition, Carp Co-operative Nursery School receives funding from the City of Ottawa.
Below is a description of the different areas of the classroom and the learning materials:
Creative Area (e.g. easel painting, finger painting, gluing, stamping, collages etc.)
Different materials allow the children to use their imagination and develop their creativity. Through the creative process, self expression and communication skills are promoted. The children also learn about concepts such as colours, shapes, and size. Fine motor control is enhanced, and this is a precursor to writing and literary skills.
Science Table (e.g. seashells, rocks, bird nests & feathers, animal habitats, etc)
This table displays both familiar and unfamiliar objects that are found in the natural world around us. These objects change as the season and themes change. Children are encouraged to bring things they have found to show the others and learn more through discussion. A large magnifying glass allows details to be seen and explored clearly. Science activities help children develop their senses as well as their cognitive abilities.
Sensory Activity (e.g. play dough, slime, sand, water, shaving cream, etc.)
These activities offer a rich sensory experience for the children and a real opportunity for exploration. Sensory play helps develop connections in the brain as well as enhancing fine and gross motor control skills. It supports language development and there are also many opportunities for creative play.
Tabletop Toys (e.g. puzzles, Duplo, magnetic blocks, and various other manipulatives)
These activities allow children to practice their fine motor skills including finger strength, eye hand coordination and dexterity. They also develop their problem-solving skills and the ability to focus for longer periods of time.
Quiet/Book Area
This is a calm area where children can quietly enjoy books and puzzles. Families are encouraged to bring in their favourite books to share. The school also uses the local public library to enhance our selection of books. Books stimulate imagination, curiosity and discussion as well as encourage literacy skills. Sometimes this area is a good spot for children to take a few minutes to themselves and to learn to manage their emotions.
Dramatic Play Area
This area is sometimes a house, a restaurant, a space station, or a doctor’s office among other things. It is changed up regularly depending on the children’s interests. When children engage in pretend play they are experimenting with social and emotional roles in real life. They develop their language and cognitive skills as well as the ability to cooperate and empathize.
Gross Motor/Block Area (e.g. wooden blocks, foam blocks, log rounds, balance beam, trampoline and other large toys)
This cooperative area teaches the children to share with each other while constructing and building. As they play, they develop their gross motor skills including co-ordination, agility, and balance. Working on gross motor skills help children gain strength and confidence in their bodies.
Outdoor Yard
Our large fenced yard features a sandbox, grassed area and a variety of outdoor toys. It also has a small hill which is fun for running in the summer and sledding in the winter!
