Home › Our Approach
Our Approach to Learning
Children learn best when they feel safe, connected and excited to explore. Our approach combines play, relationships and responsive teaching to create meaningful learning experiences every day.
How Children Learn at MEYM
At MEYM, we see children as capable, curious and active participants in their learning. Our educators create environments that invite exploration, creativity and discovery, while building strong relationships that help children feel safe, confident and connected. Rather than delivering learning through formal lessons, we support children's development through play, conversations, investigations and everyday experiences
PLAY-BASED LEARNING
Learning Through Exploration
Children learn through doing. Whether they're building a cubby, creating artwork, investigating insects in the garden, mixing colours or creating imaginary worlds, every experience provides opportunities to develop language, literacy, numeracy, problem-solving and social skills. Our educators carefully observe children's interests and extend their thinking through meaningful interactions, questions and experiences that spark curiosity and learning.
RELATIONSHIPS
A Strong Sense of Belonging
Learning happens in the context of relationships. We take time to build trusting connections with children and create welcoming environments where every child feels seen, heard and valued. Strong relationships help children develop confidence, form friendships and feel secure enough to explore, take risks and learn.
CHILDREN'S AGENCY
Children as Active Participants
Children's ideas, questions and interests help shape our programs. We encourage children to make choices, contribute to decisions, share their thinking and take an active role in their learning. When children know their voices matter, they develop confidence, independence and a strong sense of agency.
MIXED AGE LEARNING COMMUNITIES
Why We Choose Mixed-Age Learning Communities
At MEYM, children are placed in mixed-age kindergarten groups because they create rich and inclusive learning communities. Just as children learn alongside siblings, cousins and friends of different ages in everyday life, mixed-age groups provide natural opportunities for learning, leadership and connection.
Younger children learn by observing, playing and collaborating with older peers, while older children develop confidence, empathy and leadership as they support and guide others. Educators thoughtfully design experiences that meet children where they are in their learning, ensuring every child is challenged, supported and able to thrive.
Mixed-age learning reflects the way communities naturally work and supports children to build strong social skills, resilience, independence and a sense of belonging. It is a key part of our commitment to creating welcoming learning environments where every child can contribute, learn and grow
For your child
A Day at Kindergarten
Every day at MEYM is different because every group of children is different. Rather than following a rigid schedule, we create flexible learning environments where children can explore their interests, build relationships and learn at their own pace. Throughout the day, children engage in a range of experiences that support their learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging.
PLAY
Exploring Through Play
Children investigate, experiment, create and imagine through purposeful play experiences that support learning across all areas of development.
NATURE
Indoor and Outdoor Discovery
Children move between indoor and outdoor environments, engaging in experiences that encourage exploration, movement, creativity and connection with the natural world
COMMUNITY
Learning Alongside Others
Children develop friendships, solve problems together and learn from peers within our mixed-age learning communities.
VOICE
Ideas That Matter
Children's interests, questions and perspectives help shape learning experiences, projects and investigations throughout the year.
CONNECTION
Sharing Stories and Experiences
Throughout the day, children come together to share ideas, celebrate achievements, listen to stories and strengthen their sense of belonging within the group.
CONFIDENCE
Growing Independence
As they make choices, solve problems and navigate relationships, children develop the confidence and independence that support lifelong learning and a positive transition to school.
See Our Approach in Action
The best way to understand our approach is to experience it firsthand. Contact us to visit one of our kindergartens, meet our educators and see how children learn through play, connection and discovery every day
Find a Kindergarten