1847 Bayview Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M4G 3E4, Canada
469 Merton Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 1B4, Canada
Indirect Support:
1847 Bayview Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M4G 3E4, Canada
469 Merton Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 1B4, Canada
1986
1952
50
140
Preschool to 2
JK to 6
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional, Reggio Emilia
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
8 to 10
16 to 20
Learning
$8,500 to $24,000
$32,700
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
8
16
0%
0%
100%
90%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, 1, 2, 3
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Rolling
Dec 15, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 2
Yes: grades JK - 6
No
No
information not available
Sunnybrook School (SBS) is a small coed school for students from JK to Grade 6, located on a leafy residential street in midtown Toronto. It was the first primary school in Canada to adopt the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and continues to take a global approach to education. Since its founding in 1952 as one of North Toronto’s first preschools, SBS has been an innovator in education for young children. The current curriculum strives to keep pace with the latest advances in pedagogy, such as Singapore math and one-to-one iPads, while still maintaining a focus on the fundamentals, such as cursive writing. There’s a lively arts and music program (including an elaborate, school-wide musical production), traditional and unique offerings in physical education, daily French from JK and extensive community service opportunities. To compensate for its limited size and modest facilities, SBS ensures its students benefit from the many resources the city has to offer, from nearby athletic facilities to downtown galleries and museums. With a family-like atmosphere where everyone knows everyone and parents are always welcome, SBS offers a warm, academically enriched environment focused on preparing young students for success at middle school and beyond.
Read The Our Kids Review of Sunnybrook School
Since Children’s Garden was established in 1986, there has been a nice consistency of approach and leadership through the directorship of Pauline Foulkes. When she began, there were just two students. Though enrolment has grown, Foulkes maintains a very hands-on, involved role within all aspects of care and instruction at the boutique-sized school. Location and size are important, though the quality of the programming, of course, is too, and there are few instances of nursery schools with as long a record of providing such unwavering service. The school is housed, now as from the start, in the Church of St. Augustine of Canterbury, though the program isn’t affiliated with the church and is non-denominational.
View full reportSunnybrook School was founded in 1952, becoming one of the very first preschools in Canada. It was exotic for the time, both for being a nursery school, as well as being founded by an Austrian educator, Irmingard Hoff. From opening day the school was at the leading edge of education at the time, and it has worked to remain there ever since. Sunnybrook was the first school in the country to adopt the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. It's since dedicated itself to development of 21st century literacies, an international curriculum, and the adoption of Singapore Math. Which sounds like a lot, and it is. The ideal student is one who is operating at the top of her peer group, and who is able to make the most of the range of programming on offer.
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"The principal and all the teachers are passionate about creating the optimal environment for young children to adapt to school life, learn and grow."
Omar Hamam - Parent (Oct 16, 2018)
I have 3 children, one attended from preschool to SK and the others are currently in JK and started ...
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"Children's Garden Nursery School provides a theme-based curriculum that is relatively structured which was one of the main selling points for us. There is a calendar sent out each month that shows exactly..."
Benjamin Pham - Parent (Nov 19, 2018)
Our daughter's experience at Children's Garden Nursery School has been fantastic. She is in her 2nd ...
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"The small class sizes are the perfect transition into a formal classroom environment, ensuring that each child feels safe as they take their first steps towards independence."
Dixie Ho - Parent (Dec 03, 2018)
Our older child started in the preschool class at Children's Garden Nursery School and completed the...
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"Right away we could see our daughter amongst the students of Sunnybrook School"
Reza Asadikia - Parent (Feb 21, 2018)
The size of this school is in a way that is not intimidating for younger students, but at the same t...
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"He is motivated by his peers, and is learning to become more independent with respect to managing his homework, and balancing his schedule."
Olivia Kao - Parent (Nov 19, 2019)
My child recently switched from a Montessori environment to Sunnybrook School this year. Although i...
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"...very impressed by the scaffolding that takes place in the classroom - how lessons are built to work together and previous learning supports"
Laura Waters - Parent (Jun 02, 2020)
Our daughter started at Sunnybrook for SK. She immediately felt welcomed into the entire school comm...
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"Since 1986, we have created a loving and nurturing school environment where young students thrive and have a true sense of belonging. The early years are our specialty; our curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience focusing on the whole child, including social, emotional, physical and cognitive development. Daily specialties such as French, Sportball, drama and music are also included in our curriculum. Join us for the upcoming school year and give your child the gift of a lifetime!"
"Sunnybrook is an IB co-ed school for students from JK to Grade 6. Positive, nurturing relationships at school give our students the confidence to challenge themselves; SBS teachers create a welcoming classroom experience in which all students can reach their potential. Academic learning at SBS is balanced, holistic and engaging; the PYP is enhanced with Singapore Math, Phys Ed, Music and Library, as well as French classes daily. Our strong arts program fosters creativity, confidence and self expression. SBS prides itself with promoting our students to be social responsible and critical thinkers. Through personal and group action, our students give back to the local and global community. SBS is a certified Ecoschool and is a carbon free school as we offset our carbon footprint and donate seedlings to a Smart Forest in New Brunswick."
"We fully commit to keeping our class sizes small. When a child is only one of 8 or 10 students, we can guarantee that each child is given an individual academic program that challenges them appropriately, a curriculum that is accelerated or is at a slower pace to ensure that all of the foundational building blocks of learning are in place. Our students are fully prepared to move on to any larger school environment, be it private or public school."
"Sunnybrook is a small school with a strong community that provides a challenging, high quality International Baccalaureate PYP curriculum. Sunnybrook was the first PYP accredited school in English Canada, and our IB students have agency, are critical thinkers, and learn to take action in the world. Sunnybrook School is Coed, inclusive, and serves a diverse community. Our small size means we know each student well and can tailor our curriculum and school experience to their individual needs."
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"We often hear from new parents that the main reason they chose our school is due to feeling 'it' during their first tour. 'It' is a feeling that is generated by witnessing happy children actively participating in various activities, witnessing teachers being kind, supportive and showing a true love for what they do best...teach. Many families choose our school solely based on recommendations from past and present families whose children flourished in all areas of development at CGNS."
"The number one reason parents choose Sunnybrook School is our caring, inclusive community. Our small size and devoted staff mean that students feel a strong sense of belonging. Students love that everyone knows them in the school, and everyone cares about them and their education. Through our IB program, we nurture a love of learning and curiosity about the world. The combination of strong community, high academic and personally differentiated learning makes Sunnybrook a truly special school."
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"The value of a small school community can never be overlooked.! We are very proud to help facilitate the bond between all CGNS families during their children's time with us and love to hear that even years later, families still keep in touch with one another. We know of CGNS families that even take vacations together...their 'children' are now in university! Our Parent Association events are where families can come together and begin new friendships."
"The heart of Sunnybrook School and its outstanding success is our dedicated staff. Because of our low staff turnover, our teachers are known and loved by our students and parents, and often students look forward to each grade level knowing the teacher they will have in upcoming years. In the words of a parent, “You see the individual child and their unique strengths. You nurture that like a flame. I have seen both boys grow in confidence since being at SBS. It has been truly transformational.”"
"As one parent stated - CGNS is punching way above its weight! Being a small school located in a modest facility, first impressions may be deceiving and there may be the assumption that we are not able to provide a curriculum that matches other private schools. Our parents are often surprised to hear that we have an excellent success rate of children being accepted into their first school of choice when moving onto larger private schools. We are a small but mighty school!"
"Our approach to learning constantly engages our students. In their own words, “The learning is fun, challenging, you learn so much, not just lectures, there’s varied learning, it’s collaborative, and you learn from other students, not just teachers.” From junior kindergarten to their graduating year when their learning is showcased in the grade six PYP Exhibition, our students have had the advantage of a rich, engaging curriculum delivered by teachers who know and care about their progress."
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Welcome to Children's Garden Nursery School!
I have been very fortunate to call Children's Garden my 'home away from home since our doors opened in our only location back in 1986. Over these years, my goal as owner/principal of the school has always been to maintain integrity in all aspects of the school environment and for children to receive the highest quality of education.
My commitment to the children is to provide them with both a solid academic and social foundation during these early informative years.
My commitment to parents is always to be accountable and fulfill their expectations of an excellent school experience for their children.
I could not meet any of my commitments without my wonderful staff. Although we have a professional workplace, our ability to have fun with the children while working together is what gives Children's Garden Nursery School a welcoming atmosphere the moment you walk through the doors. It is important to me that all of my staff are respected, valued, treated equally, and working at Children’s Garden is not just a job but a way to express their true passion and what they do best….teach children!
I hope that you come and visit us and get to see first-hand why thousands of children have started their educational journey at Children’s Garden Nursery School over the past 37 years.
Sunnybrook invites you to become a part of a very special school. Flexible, dynamic, lively learning to challenge, provoke and engage young minds. At Sunnybrook School we succeed in channeling the energy, enthusiasm and joy of elementary boys and girls into disciplined, thoughtful learning. The small size of our school enables us to know our students and their families, giving greater meaning to the triangle of child, home and school. Our size also enables us to showcase all our students and their work.
With a long, proud history of innovation. We search the world for excellence in elementary education, bringing world class programs to our school. The IB Primary Years Program (IB PYP) enriches and complements our philosophy, giving us an outstanding framework for assessment and curriculum development. Our qualified teachers have extensive IB training; five members of our staff are on the faculty of IB. The IB Program enables us to give our students the world. In our quest for excellence, we have adopted the Singapore Math Program, an enlightened, engaging and effective approach to mathematics learning.
Sunnybrook has remained small because we believe that small schools are good for both students and teachers. Our graduates benefit from the small school environment by becoming confident, self-assured, inquiring young people, ready for the world of a larger middle school. Our faculty is both the heart and the backbone of our dynamic school. The core of a teacherʼs work is to nurture curiosity and inspire learning. Visit our website to learn more; we encourage you to visit our school to see for yourself what Sunnybrook will offer your child. We forward to meeting you.
Progressive
International Baccalaureate
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
Small class sizes allow us to accommodate, modify, and create individualized learning paths that meet the diverse need of our learning environment. This student-centered approach allows students to take responsibility for their learning while providing them with the proper guidance and support needed to meet specific learning objectives. Catering to the individual’s needs will result in a deeper understanding, higher self-esteem and motivation or desire to keep learning. Students will be able to discover and explore through hands-on learning, problem-solving, predicting, questioning, and risk-taking in both small and large group settings.
Sunnybrook School is an IB Primary Years Program (IBPYP) school; we offer a global curriculum in a local context. We are committed to offering an engaging learning experience, and we encourage our students to learn with enthusiasm and commitment. French, Music, and Physical Education classes complement the regular classroom. We have a strong literacy focus, including both skills and a love of reading. Our school library is a hub of inquiry, offering various traditional and electronic research opportunities.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Young children develop early math skills in a variety of areas, including problem-solving and reasoning, number concepts, geometry, and spatial sense, measurement, and patterns & relationships. These skills are taught through hands-on manipulatives and while playing and having fun through daily experiences, activities, and routines. Splashlearn is an online math program that supports all in-class learning.
The Singapore Math curriculum approaches numeracy concepts and skills in a balanced way. The emphasis on inquiry and conceptual understanding is complemented with rigour in applying skills and knowledge in mathematics. Singapore Math takes the learners from using hands on manipulatives to solve math problems to a step using pictorial representation of the problem before expecting students to find their answers using mental math. This unique pictorial step provides an additional tool for students who have a developing understanding of concepts, but are not yet ready to solve problems in their heads. Through Singapore Math, our students learn to love working with numbers, solving problems, and seeing the world through the lens of mathematics.
We use a variety of resources to cover teaching math skills at this level.
Singapore Math books and supporting materials
Students use calculators when appropriate.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Children who have developed the understanding that words can be segmented into sounds tend to be better readers than those with poor phonological and phonemic awareness. Phonemic awareness is not a concept that all children discover on their own. However, when taught to analyze the individual sounds in words, children can more quickly and accurately connect those sounds to letters and then blend groups of sounds into words when reading. Studies have shown that phonemic awareness skills are often deficient in children who struggle in learning to read and write. In addition to Phonics, we do implement Whole Language when needed. Our online guided reading program from kindergarten onwards is Raz Kids.
Learning to read is the primary task of elementary school. It is important when designing a reading program to remember that young children acquire reading skills at different paces. Therefore we have developed a literacy program that takes this into consideration, while having high expectations of all learners. We begin with reading readiness at the beginning of JK, including teaching concepts of print, exposure to the written word, opportunities to write at their level and a great deal of exposure to literature.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
We use DRA's to ensure accountability in our teaching, and to measure the success of our reading program over time.
Process approach
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.
We LOVE inventive spelling! We do not correct the child's work until we know that a child has built up a certain level of confidence with their risk-taking and that a love for writing is well established. We typically take note of where the child is having issues with spelling and grammar and build upon these skills in other areas of the program.
Writing and reading are integrated in teaching young learners. Our students are encouraged to write about their learning and their experiences as early as possible. Through the 6 + 1 Writing Traits program our students learn specific skills and develop an understanding of the elements of good written communication. Specific writing, spelling and grammar skills are taught more systematically as students move into the older grades.
Inquiry
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
Due to the young age of our students, science activities are a natural part of our theme related curriculum. Our goal is to give the children fun and interactive experiences when exploring science for the first time. Developing skills such as being a good observer, being open-minded, being inquisitive are all perfect traits for budding young scientists!
Science is taught in the IB Units of Inquiry. In these units students are encouraged to experiment, explore, ask questions, and seek answers to scientific questions. The units are carefully planned to include scientific content and ideas, encouraging students to become critical thinkers and inquirers.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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Our Library program fosters a love of literature of all genres. Literature for the classroom is usually chosen to correspond to the IB Units of Inquiry. These units often have a social justice component, and selections are made to support the learning and allow students to make connections and develop understandings of their world through literature. Selections for younger students are made to maximize their skills acquisition and enjoyment of reading in the early years.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Thematic
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Because our young children are concrete thinkers, age-appropriate social studies experiences start with children's own lives and experiences. After their family, the classroom is the first society that young children belong to. For them, early social studies learning grows from their interactions with the exposure to people and lessons taught in our school setting. As a school community we are involved in several Community Outreach programs throughout the school year such as collecting unwrapped toys for a local toy drive, Capes for Kids supporting Holland Bloorview etc. Diversity, Community roles, Geography, History and Ecology are important factors of our social studies curriculum.
The social studies curriculum framework in the IB PYP emphasizes a conceptual approach to content. Units of Inquiry are organized in to explore specific content (i.e. government, transportation, migration) in both broad conceptual and more specific content related ways. Students learn to explore topics through guided inquiry and research.
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Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
The goals of the French Program are: • To introduce a new language in a fun and engaging way. • To familiarize children with the phonetics of French. • To learn a variety of basic, day to day vocabulary. French is taught through the use of songs, games, books, work sheets, stories, poems, art, and dance. All of these teaching methods are used to provide a variety of ways for children to access and apply French vocabulary. The children are given instruction in small groups, ensuring a fun and relaxed atmosphere that is non-competitive. Children are never pressured to speak French; rather they are encouraged to feel comfortable trying out new sounds and words and are encouraged and rewarded with smiles and praise.
Language is the gateway to culture and comfort speaking in another language opens opportunities. In the early years French is taught daily in an engaging interactive way, with an emphasis on oral communication skills. Older students read and write in French as well. We make extensive use of technology and student iPads in our French program. We offer French daily from Jk to GR 6.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
Receptive arts programs emphasize art history (visual, music, theatre, etc) and appreciation over creating or “making” art. Students learn about various artistic works and movements, and are asked to reflect on their underlying aesthetic features and principles. The goal is to give students a core body of knowledge related to the arts, while developing their cognitive, emotional, and aesthetic sensibilities. Studio-work is still a component of most reflective programs, but it plays less of a role than in creative programs.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Art is about the excitement of exploration, children get to play with different media, including Paint, Sculpture, Still life drawing, Collage, Mural work, Photography and Multimedia. Children also learn about the elements of design: Line, Shape, Colour, Texture, Value, Space and Form. Our students experience art in the world around them through stories, songs, movement, and of course, lots of messy fun. Our Musical Theatre program serves to introduce the students to dramatic storytelling, puppetry, creative movement, imaginative play, and music. Our kindergarten, grade 1 & 2 students are involved in the creation and performance of a musical play twice a year.
The arts are integrated in our IB transdisciplinary Units of Inquiry. Music is taught by a specialist, with a dance and drama component. In the arts students are given opportunities to express their knowledge and ideas in various ways; they learn Art, learn about Art and learn through Art. We produce a musical that involves every student in the school from grades 1-6. Every child acts, sings and dances in the musical held at the end of each year. Students use many instruments like recorder, boom whackers, Orff instruments, bells, melodicas and learn to read music and prepare for band in the middle years.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
At Children's Garden Nursery School, we have iPads for each child to use. We have a variety of math and language programs that serve as a ‘virtual teacher assistant’ as the classroom teacher is able to gain access to pre-test and post-test assessment data to determine each child’s success in mastering various reading and math skills.
Technology is pervasive in our students' lives. Our goal is to give teachers the tools to guide young people in using it in innovative, constructive and meaningful ways. Sunnybrook School has a 1:1 iPad program for all students from JK to Grade 6. Combined with traditional methods of learning technology is used for communication, connection, creativity and collaboration. Digital literacy and digital citizenship are integrated into our curriculum.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Sportball introduces children between the ages of 2-8 years old to the FUNdamentals of 7 different sports: soccer, hockey, basketball, baseball, volleyball, tennis and golf which are taught in a non-competitive atmosphere. Children also have the opportunity to get involved in fun games that focus on developing gross motor skills, building self-esteem, confidence and teamwork. Sportball instructors are thoroughly screened and well trained. Coaches are First Aid and CPR certified and have related education and/or experience with children.
Regular Physical Education classes combine team and individual sports to teach the skills for a healthy lifestyle. We focus on sportsmanship, teamwork, fitness and health. Classes such as rock climbing, swimming, curling, kung fu, cross country running, field sports and net sports are held. Teams are offered as we are part of the SSAF and compete against other schools.
Academic
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
We provide a well-balanced curriculum that meets each child’s individual needs. Our experienced teachers spend time assessing and getting to know the children in their class. Group dynamics, individual personalities, energy levels, maturity, and level of academic knowledge are all factors that the teachers take into account when planning for the school year ahead. Our curriculum includes; learning activities for Multiple Intelligences, Math, Language, Geography, Science, History, Cultural studies, Global awareness, Community Outreach, Core French, Sportball, Musical Theatre, Theme Based Curriculum, Mindfulness Activities, Handwriting Without Tears, Raz Kids Reading Program, Splashlearn Math Program.
Sunnybrook School offers a balanced, stimulating and enriched kindergarten curriculum. The core of the JK and SK curriculum is based on the IB PYP, Singapore Math and our own unique literacy program. We enrich this with French, Music, Phys Ed and Library. Play time indoors and on our playground round out the kindergarten experience. The program is designed to stimulate children’s creativity, build early academic skills, and develop communication and social skills. At Sunnybrook School, kindergarten sets the foundation for a love of learning with trusted adults, great friends, a cheerful physical environment and stimulating, engaging learning.
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Assessing a child's learning style, understanding of concepts being taught and readiness to move forward to the next stage needs to happen on a regular basis in order for a child to meet with success.
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Supportive
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
Although we have a strong academic curriculum, we have to take into serious consideration that these are young children and often this is their first experience of being in a school setting. Our responsibility to our students is to first and foremost, create a warm and nurturing environment in order for each child to feel secure and willing to take a risk with their learning. Once this has been established, trust in their teacher allows each child to reach their full academic potential. These early years are a crucial time for building a solid academic foundation.
As an elementary school beginning at JK we are more supportive than rigorous. However, as our students approach the higher grades the emphasis on the skills and knowledge shifts with their greater maturity, and in preparation for middle school. Beginning in SK we have benchmarks for reading and math, allowing us to differentiate for different student needs.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
School should be a place where a child can experience love and respect as well as intellectual stimulation. Thus, when we consider the education of a child we should view the process as both social and intellectual – after all, what a child feels influences his or her desire to learn. Although we offer a sound curriculum at Children’s Garden, our primary concern is the child’s emotional and social development. We will foster independence and self-confidence, cooperation, respect, and over-all social awareness of the world around them.
As an IB school, Sunnybrook has a focus on global citizenship. To that end we work with our students develop the skills, dispositions and knowledge to help them understand themselves and others, and the issues they will face in our ever-changing world. Learning in all domains develops a well rounded, balanced individual, ready to contribute to community and society.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
| Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
| Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
| Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. | ||||
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Accommodations
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
CGNS is proud to welcome a literacy specialist to our school family starting in September 2022. Should your child already have a psycho-educational assessment with recommendations for additional remedial instruction, or if you feel your child needs some extra support to get them back on track after a year of online learning; our literacy specialist teacher will work one-on-one with your child during school hours at an agreed-upon schedule. Parents are billed directly for this extra support. Your child will have the opportunity to be part of a regular classroom environment while participating in an individualized program designed to help them meet with success.
Sunnybrook has an enriched curriculum and students must be able to handle the curriculum. SBS offers accommodations for students with mild learning disabilities. We want each child to be successful.
Communication between the school and parents is crucial in determining if Children’s Garden Nursery School is the best program for your child. It is not our mandate to willingly take on a child where we don’t have the expertise or staff to support that child. Should a child develop learning difficulties during their time with us, every effort would be made to assist the parents in obtaining information from community agencies and organizations to ensure that the child’s needs are met.
The Sunnybrook curriculum is accelerated and enriched, and some of our students find it challenging. Our teachers differentiate where possible to accommodate different learning levels. These students may receive extra support on a withdrawal basis, however, we do not specialize in teaching students with learning disabilities.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
0%
0%
$0
$0
100%
90%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, 1, 2, 3
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Rolling
Dec 15, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 2
Yes: grades JK - 6
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Children who are eager to learn! Curious, fun-loving, ready to listen to direction, ability to focus, and be part of a group.
We encourage parents to visit our Open House and meet our senior students; this will give you an idea of the kind of student we are looking for. Children who are curious and knowledgeable for their age and who enjoy learning will thrive at SBS.
Interested families must submit an Application Form to arrange a private tour of the school.
There is no application fee.
A deposit of two months tuition is required to secure your child's space.
Choosing a school is a big decision for families, and our goal is to make this comfortable and transparent. A visit to the school begins the process. For application we require the application form, birth certificate, previous year's school reports (if applicable), any other relevant reports and the application fee. Overseas applications are welcome.
The application procedure includes an assessment of each student (we usually meet our applicants in small groups), and an interview with the parents.
The registration fee for JK students is $3000.
