What do children learn in preschool?
Preschool curriculum in Canada: subjects, activities, and themes
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Quick summary
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Preschools are a hotbed of learning for kids. Children, especially young ones, are eager learners. They’re like sponges: they soak up everything around them—the environment, surroundings, sights, and sounds.
But what do children learn in preschool? Of course, this will depend on the preschool and its approach to early learning. Some private preschools focus more on play-based learning. Others offer more structured, sit-down learning (academic preschool). And some offer a fairly equal combination of play-based and sit-down learning.
No matter the approach or philosophy, though, most preschools (like daycare centres) tend to have similar educational goals. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, some of their more important goals include the following:
Often, then, preschools have similar learning outcomes and ways of measuring whether they’re met. And while they get there in different ways, they often cover similar ground: subjects, topics, skills, and the like.
Below, we outline a common preschool curriculum (Canada). First, we list subjects, topics, and exercises frequently covered in preschool. Then we list common preschool activities for kids between the ages of 3 and 6 (and sometimes younger). Finally, we list some common preschool trends.
Keep in mind, though, that not all preschools follow this curriculum. Moreover, even when they do, they often have different approaches to delivering it (based on different philosophies, such as Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia).
Preschool questions (read our in-depth answers) |
There are some common subjects covered in preschool education. The Early Childhood Education (ECE) department at Concordia University (in Portland, Oregon) provides a nice overview of these in their preschool curriculum guide. This guide outlines some of the main subjects and topics covered at the preschool level.
There are also some common preschool learning activities in the classroom. Below, is an overview of the some of the main ones. Note, many of these are great activities for preschool-age kids to do at home as well.
Finally, there are some common preschool trends in the way private preschools deliver curricula. This includes both pedagogical approaches and topical focuses (which depart from the core curriculum). Some preschools don’t follow these trends (or at least all of them), but they’ve become quite popular in recent years.
“There should be a broad range of activities, including interactive, motor, listening, and sensory experiences. Here is a suggested checklist of must-haves (with examples of activities) for brain-building and happy productivity:
“Letters and sounds: Kids will learn to recognize and name all 26 uppercase letter and lowercase letters (lowercase letters are harder to learn at this age). They will recognize their own first name and be able to print it, along with other letters and meaningful words like ‘mom,’ ‘dad,’ and ‘love.’ Numbers and counting: Teachers will help kids learn to recognize and identify the numbers 1 through 10 and correctly count 10 or more objects. Learning what numerals 0 to 9 look like and being able to name them correctly is one of the first math skills preschoolers learn.
Cutting and drawing: Before entering kindergarten, children should be able to cut with scissors. As they develop better hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, they will start drawing and colouring beyond just scribbles and will learn to use pencils, paint brushes, and glue. Socializing and sharing: Developing important social skills is necessary before starting kindergarten; preschoolers will learn how to share and cooperate, work together and take turns, participate in group activities, follow simple directions, and communicate wants and needs.” Lee Venditti, director of J. Addison, a Montessori school in Markham, Ontario
“The academic skills that are acquired through direct instruction by our preschoolers include writing their names and learning their addresses and phone numbers. Students are also provided with the opportunity to learn colours, sizes, and shapes. For our math and phonics-related classes, numbers and prewriting skills are introduced, as well as shape identification, letter recognition, sounds, and rhyming. Our teachers also introduce children to simple sentence structure, addition, and subtraction.
Through storytime activities, literacy and comprehension skills and language development are fostered. Our social studies program emphasizes skills such as persistence, respect for others, cooperation, honesty, trustworthiness, and sensitivity. With regards to our art program, our preschoolers use varied materials to create original pieces. Different colours, textures, and shapes are also used to reinforce self-expression.” Debbie Keough, teacher at Prestige School, a gifted school, in Richmond Hill, Ontario
“The main question parents need to ask themselves about the Waldorf curriculum is: What is being taught if it is not math work sheets, early reader book series, or desk work? What is experiential learning like in preschool and kindergarten? For math and reading it looks something like this:
“Our preschool program encourages the developments of social skills through creative play, enriching stories, and time outdoors together. At this age, children engage in the world entirely through their own senses. So they will have natural toys and materials at hand and plenty of time outdoors for free play. Imaginative play, the focus of the early childhood classroom and the true ‘work’ of the child, encourages problem solving and creative thinking. It is the most effective way to cultivate a love of learning and set a foundation for academic excellence.” Lylli Anthon, faculty chair of Halton Waldorf school, in Burlington, Ontario
“Children experience the joy of learning through a variety of activities that support letter and number recognition, colour and shape identification, and explore the physical world through science and social experiences. In addition, as part of our program, children will gain the knowledge of self, family, culture, and community.” Stacy Paton, ECE program manager of Queen Margaret’s School, in Duncan, British Columbia
“Rather than confining preschool learning to the boundaries of traditional subject areas, learning is centred around six themes of global significance which are explored in the classroom using several subjects. Our transdisciplinary program makes youngsters understand connections between learning and the ‘real world,’ thus engaging them and stimulating their desire for learning. The preschool curriculum crosses disciplines and empowers children to be inquisitive.” Nora Ibrahim, preschool teacher and IB PYP (Primary Years Programme) coordinator at Académie de la Capitale, in Ottawa, Ontario
“Our curriculum is designed specifically for the preschool program. Language and personal expression are based on the individual needs of the child. The curriculum is rooted in exploratory, play-based learning that zeros in on math, language, gross motor skills, and social and emotional development.” Corina Gill, assistant head of the lower school at Bayview Glen Independent School, in Toronto, Ontario
“We foster academic excellence through guided and pod learning, teacher-directed lessons, and exploratory, creative, and inquiry-based activities. Subject areas such as phonics, printing, math, French, social studies, geography, and music are taught in a cross-curricular, fun, and inviting manner. Imagination, creativity, and play are a part of daily activities. Basic learning techniques and skills such as storytelling, poetry, drawing, painting, and more are emphasized weekly.” Paula Carrasco, director of Kendelhurst Academy, in Mississauga, Ontario
Pickering College defines itself through its values and the tradition that informs them. [Read more]
The Capstone Years program at Pickering College is reimagining what a school project can be. [Read more]
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Toronto Waldorf School offers a curriculum that integrates academics,arts & movement, and addresses the intellectual, physical, emotional & social aspects of child development. Preschool to gr. 12.
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An authentic, CCMA accredited Montessori School located in downtown Toronto, offering programs for Toddlers, Casa and Elementary children.
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Founded in 1990, Yip's Montessori Program cater to children from 1.5 to 6 years old. Yip's four campuses are located in Markham, Unionville and Thornhill.
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TMS is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a unique design of Montessori and International Baccalaureate programmes. Our students thrive in academics while building a foundation of Significance.
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La Citadelle's Excellence in Bilingual Education and academically advanced curriculum develop successful global citizens through IB & AP programs and a holistic approach where students achieve their highest potential.
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Lynn-Rose Heights Private School offers challenging academic programming from three years old to grade twelve in Mississauga. Lynn-Rose Heights school is an official International Baccalaureate World School.
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Conveniently located in Midtown Toronto, our Junior and Elementary campuses are a popular choice for families seeking exceptional childcare and the very best Montessori education for their children.
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Elmwood School is Ottawa's pre-eminent school for girls from JK to Grade 12. Our high academic standards, small class sizes and safe, supportive environment ensure that each girl is inspired to reach her full potential.
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St-Laurent Academy is a private school that offers programs from nursery to high school in Ottawa. Its average class size is ten to 15 students.
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This academically re-known French & English bilingual serves students from Pre-Kg to High School. Class size averages 20 students; tuition ranges from $15,000 to $18,00 . Boarding is available.
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Glenburnie School, Oakville, offers enriched, child-centred, responsive, academic programs from Pre-K through Grade 8. Class sizes range from 8 to 18 students depending on grade level.
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Royal Cachet Montessori School is a Montessori school that offers programs from nursery to grade three in Markham. Its average class size is five to 15 students.
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The Maples is a private IB school in Orangeville, ON from PS to grade 8. Tuition starts at $8500. The Maples offer daily French instruction starting in PS.
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Kendellhurst offers students an enriched curriculum with a mix of project based, traditional and arts infused curriculum, with digital displays, Macs and PC's in every room and Edwin personal devices for grades 5 to 8.
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Guidepost Montessori at Toronto is among a growing network of schools across the world. We serve children from infant to 12 and are located in the GTA, in proximity to many parks and sights for the children to explore.
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Clanmore Montessori School in southeast Oakville offers a full spectrum, co-ed Montessori program from Toddler to Middle School. Tuition starts at $8,250. CCMA accredited. Member Oakville Independent Schools. Licenced.
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Oakville's SMLS continues to be a premier independent school for girls Preschool to Graduating Year since 1891. "Millie" graduates take on the world with confidence and the knowledge that they can do anything.
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Hawthorn School is an all-girls school in Toronto that offers programs from toddler to grade 12. Our unique mentoring program is tailored to each girl to help them reach their full potential.
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Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School in Mississauga offers Casa Montessori programs for children a ged 2.5 to 6. Before- and after-school care and summer camps also available.
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Established in 1901, Hillfield Strathallan College is one of Canada’s leading co-educational independent schools, offering programs to students 18 months through Grade 12 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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Bond Academy is a private, co-educational, non-denominational independent school with students from Montessori Casa to Grade 12.
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Century Montessori Schools in Richmond Hill runs from preschool to grade twelve, with class sizes as low as 12 students.
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TFS - Canada's International School (West Campus) offers programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 7. Its average class size is 12 to 22 students.
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Ashwood Glen offers a Montessori program for children aged 18months - 6 yrs. The Grades 1 - 8 Learning Program applies IB framework to extend the learning outcomes of the Ontario curriculum.
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Acadecap International School ( Académie de la Capitale), an IB school, offers bilingual and/or English programmes from Pre-K to Grade 12. Students thrive in a culture of academic excellence and real-life learning.
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Located in the Leaside neighbourhood of Toronto, Children's Garden Nursery School is a well-established private school that offers exceptional programming including Core French and French Immersion.
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RMS is an award-winning progressive private school, and voted the BEST private school in Brampton. We offer a structured programme that is ahead of the Ministry set guidelines.
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Peel Montessori School offers an enriched, personalized program. Emphasis is on strong academics, and the development of personal excellence (leadership skills, creativity) in a supportive, family-like environment.
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OMS Montessori is a non for profit, independent school offering separate French and English programs within a world class Montessori environment.
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Pine Lake Montessori School pursues teaching with a one on one method that respects and nurtures children and allows them to achieve their fullest potential.
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Ellington Montessori School offers small class sizes and individualized programs from pre-school to grade eight. Our holistic approach to education helps prepare students for success in today's rapidly changing world.
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Richland Academy is a progressive, innovative Reggio inspired and International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for children from 2.5-years to Grade 8. Voted #1 Private School in Richmond Hill 4 years in a row.
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Prestige School offers programs from junior kindergarten to grade 12 in Toronto. Its average class size is 10 to 18 students.
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The Prestige School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Richmond Hill. Its average class size is ten students.
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Wesley Christian Academy offers programs from Toddler to Grade 8 in Markham. As we are a Christian school, we share our beliefs with all our students but we warmly welcome families from ALL faiths and backgrounds!
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The PK – Grade 6 program is a visible expression of the philosophy embodied in Ledson's books, Raising Brighter Children and Teach Your Child to Read in Just 10 Minutes a Day.
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Oxford Learning Academy – where your child will experience a homeschooling approach with the benefits of socialization in a small classroom environment. This Milton private school runs from PK to grade 8.
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Queen Margaret's School is an independent day/boarding university preparatory school in Duncan, BC.
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The Hatch House Montessori School is a very child centered school where each student is respected for his/her uniqueness and is taught accordingly. Ask about our unique, fully bilingual elementary program.
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Fern Hill School is a private independent school for Preschool through Grade 8 offering individualized learning by subject-specific teachers. Our school is regarded as one of the pre-eminent elementary schools in Canada.
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Halton Waldorf School in Burlington, Ontario offers a licensed preschool, kindergarten and grades 1 to 12. It’s average class size is 15 to 21 students.
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Aurora Montessori School offers a comprehensive, nurturing and enriched program for Toddler to Grade 8. Our enrolment of 375 day students has an average class size of 15 to 24.
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Shining Light Montessori is the community you've searched for -- where children feel comfortable, with teachers who care. Our children learn, build their confidence, reach their potential, & let their lights shine!
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Since 1979, Banbury's student-paced approach with tutorial instruction is in small, multi-aged groups of 10:1. Meainingful relationships enhance learning. Member of Canadian Coalition of Self Directed Learning--CCSDL.
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Providence Academy is the only Private French Catholic School offering a trilingual program of study in Ontario with classes from nursery to grade eight. Tuition: $8,800-10,300. Extracurricular activities: $600-$650.
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Located in Brantford, Ontario, Montessori House of Children (MHC) provides excellent programs for grades Nursery to 3 and helps young children reach their learning potential with both independent and self-directed learning. MHC also offers support for students with learning differences.
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Northstar Montessori offers authentic Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8 in Mississauga. We pride ourselves on strong character development and supporting life long learners! Now, Swim program is now included.
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Bannockburn School leads in Montessori education by offering an exceptional, enriched Montessori curriculum in a nurturing environment carefully prepared to meet the needs of children in the formative years of childhood.
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ArtsCalibre Academy empowers students through creativity, mindfulness and leadership. We offer Preschool to Grade Eight in 2017/2018, adding one grade per year through to Grade 12.
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Lycée Louis Pasteur is the only school in Calgary to teach the French Ministry of Education and Alberta Education curricula. Three years old to Grade 12. All linguistic backgrounds welcome. Small class sizes.
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Rotherglen School - MISSISSAUGA is a montessori school that offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. Its average class size is 18 students.
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Humberside Montessori Schools a montessori private school in Toronto. It offers programs from nursery to grade eight.
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Meadow Green Academy offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Mississauga. Its average class size is 12 students.
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The Alexander von Humboldt German International School Montreal is a multilingual (German, English and French), private, co-educational school serving students from preschool to grade 12.
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Braemar House School is a not-for-profit elementary school that proves each day that children thrive in a nurturing environment that offers personalized attention.
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MJDS inspires a lifetime love for learning in a nurturing environment that fosters respect for oneself, the community and the world, guided by the shared values of Judaism and Montessori education.
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ABC Montessori is one of Mississauga's premier private schools. The school offers both Montessori and traditional school programs from preschool to Grade 5.
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Liberty Prep offers programs from Toddler - Gr. 6 in downtown Toronto. Our environment combines a beautifully renovated building with well-trained and passionate teachers. Reach out to discover what we do differently.
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Maria Montessori School is an AMI accredited Montessori school in Toronto that offers programs for children 18 months to twelve years.
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Hitherfield is a private school for children in Preschool through Grade 8. Developing confidence, decision-making and respect are key components of our school.
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Mulgrave School offers programmes from Preschool to Grade 12 in West Vancouver. Its average class size is 20 students with teacher to student ratios of 1:8.
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Central Montessori Schools in Toronto offers instruction from nursery to grade six, with enrolment of 900 day students and tuition starting at $5,900.
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Wishing Well Schools has an academically advanced program from 18 months to Grade 8. Montessori program from 18 months to 6 years old, accelerated academic program from Grade 1 to 8 with 21st c. teaching and learning.
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Avalon provides quality programmes from kindergarten to Grade 8 in the heart of the Beach.
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Authentic Montessori Preschool. Students completing our 3 year program at The Maria Montessori School test extremely well. We balance academics, exploration and skills guided by your child's natural interests.
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Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering is a non denominational school that offers programs from Pre-school to Grade eight. We acknowledge and celebrate religious and cultural events as part of our cultural program.
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Trillium School is a montessori school that offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Markham.
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Ottawa’s Fern Hill School offers Preschool, Kindergarten and Elementary Grades, including extended French. Tuition starts at $2,950.
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Tall Pines School in Brampton provides enhanced Montessori and traditional classes from Infant to Grade Eight, is the longest accredited CCMA Montessori school in Canada, and is a leader in 21st Century education.
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Montessori Country School has provided a first-class academic experience to students in an environment that is distinguished by its compassion, integrity and unwavering commitment to the individual child.
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La Villa Montessori School is dedicated to following the Montessori philosophy and to create a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment that fulfills a child's emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs.
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Little Owl Preschool, Elementary and Middle School develops motivated, confident, and happy problem-solving individuals. We invite your child to become a Little Owl student.
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German International School in Toronto offers programs from PK to grade 8. It provides a German curriculum enriched with Canadian content.
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Robbins Hebrew Academy (RHA) teaches students to think critically and globally, in a community that builds self-esteem and life-long character. RHA is Toronto’s first Jewish school to be CAIS accredited.
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For over 25 years, the Montessori Country School provides a first-class accredited curriculum for students 12 months through grade 6. The sprawling 10 acre campus offers a unique indoor and outdoor learning experience.
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For the past 36 years Kingsley Primary School offers programs from junior kindergarten to grade five in Etobicoke. Its average class size is eight to 12 students.
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Vincent Massey supports students in reaching their individual potential through a balanced education; setting your child up for success in all avenues of life.
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Bishop Hamilton Montessori School is a Christian Montessori school in Ottawa, Ontario, with classes from Infants to grade eight.
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Offering Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8, Dearcroft is accredited by CCMA and staffed by dedicated teachers.
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Kaban Montessori School in west Mississauga/Erin Mills is a CCMA accredited school for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Come for a tour, you'll love it!
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Located in Vaughan, King Heights Academy provides a unique educational experience for toddlers to grade eight, which includes the IB Program.
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Oxford Learning Academy offers a bilingual academic program complemented by a personalized school experience. We grow lifelong learners by focusing on early primary education.
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Unionville Montessori School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. Its average class size is 18 to 22 students.
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The most important period of life is not the age of university studies, but the first one - the period from birth to the age of six. Choose Central Montessori Schools.
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Sunrise Montessori School in Markham offers both English and French Immersion programs from Infant (0 months) to Grade 8.
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Housed in the elegant colonial mansion, Harrop House in the beautiful town of Milton, Ontario. Offering low teacher to child ratios with an emphasis on personal and social development of each child.
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Magnificent Minds Inc. caters to learners whose needs are not being met in traditional school environments, pursuing academic excellence, and individual greatness.
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Ellesmere Montessori School prepares children for a lifetime of creative and purposeful learning based on the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori.
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Bayview Glen is a traditional co-ed day school in Toronto, Ontario from Preschool (age 2) to Grade 12, a global member of Round Square and offers Advanced Placement programme. Tuition ranges from $17,000 to $26,500.
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MacLachlan is a world-class school offering the benefits of small class sizes, highly dedicated and engaged teachers and an internationally recognized curriculum for students in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12.
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Kuper Academy offers programs from pre-school to grade eleven in Kirkland. Its average class size is 22 students.
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NOW WITH LICENSED DAYCARE! Bring your child for a free trial to let him or her experience the difference. Don't be surprised if he or she doesn't want to go home at the end of the day!
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Town Centre Montessori Private Schools offers programs from pre-school to grade 12/University Prep and is located in Markham.
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TFS - Canada's International School offers Canada's only bilingual IB programs from PK to Grade 12. Average class size is 12 to 22 students. Entrance Scholarship to Grade 7 is available.
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Our schools offer a maximum class size of 16 students for ages 4 & up. Tours are offered daily and new students are welcome to visit for a day.
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Calgary French & International School graduates will be active global citizens with a foundation for life-long success, and our school will be the leader in French immersion and international education.
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Kingsway College School offers programs for PK to grade 8 in Etobicoke. Its average class size is 17 to 21 students.
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River Valley is an inclusive independent school in the heart of NW Calgary that provides exceptional education for 3-year-olds to grade 6 students.
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Calgary Waldorf School’s rich and challenging curriculum carefully balances academic, artistic and practical activities to stimulate intelligence and encourage creativity.
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Cornerstone Montessori Prep School is a Toronto Christian Montessori school with grades from nursery to 12. Tuition begins at $13,500.
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We take inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy where each child is born creative, intuitive, resourceful, & has a strong potential for development from a very young age.Full-time care (7:30am-6pm). Tour anytime.
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Fern Hill School provides a calm, engaging & academic program for Preschool to Grade 8. We offer a structured approach that focuses on developing intellectual curiosity, creativity & confidence. Maximum class size is 19.
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The Giles School is a French immersion private school in Toronto for children age 2 (Pre-K) to Grade 8. Open Admissions through Grade 1, small classes, and Mandarin introduced as a third language in Grade 1.
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Founded in 1893, Olivet School is a Christian private school in Etobicoke that offers preschool to grade 5. It combines quality teaching with individual attention to help each child achieve their personal potential.
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Star Academy offers programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade Eight in Mississauga. Small class sizes, daily physical education and French for all grades, and academic excellence set us apart.
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CGS (Children's Garden School) offers co-ed, Preschool-Grade 3 programming. Small class sizes. Exceptional phonics program.
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Toronto French Montessori offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in North York. Its average class size is 15 students.
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Since 2002, J. Addison has provided a stimulating education for students. Located at the corner of Woodbine and Valleywood Drive in Markham, ON, Canada, you will find our state-of-the-art 58,000 sq. ft. facility.
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Léman Manhattan - the only boarding school in Manhattan, New York that delivers academic excellence that inspires your child for a lifetime. IB Diploma program and unique internship opportunities offered in the city.
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Bussing from Toronto (Bayview and Sheppard) available. Early Learning Centre to Grade 12. Discipline. Character. Respect. Complete your child's academic and spiritual foundation. Discover why PCA students excel!
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Lycée Français de Toronto is a French school that offers programs from nursery to grade 12. Its average class size is 17 students.
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Richmond Hill Montessori Private School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. Its average class size is 20 students.
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The School offers authentic Montessori education, individualized learning, accommodations to meet each child’s needs, hands-on learning, enriched curriculum, and outdoor exploration.
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Waldorf Academy offers programs from childcare to grade eight in downtown Toronto. Its average class size is 18 students.
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Trinity Montessori School offers programs from toddler to grade six in Markham, Ontario. Its average class size is nine students.
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Children absorb multiple languages, music & develop sports skills VERY easily. Momentum Montessori is a multilingual school exposing kids (1.5 - 6 yrs) to multiple languages, sports & music like no other program.
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The Montessori School of Calgary offers a preschool through Grade 6 program led by experienced guides and teachers who support each child with trust, respect, and proven academic success.
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St. Clement's Early Learning School
70 St. Clements Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4R 1H2
St. Clement’s Early Learning School provides a child with an opportunity for growth in all areas of his or her development.
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Wheatley School offers programs from nursery to grade eight in St. Catharines. Its average class size is 15 students.
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Oakville Christian School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Oakville. Its average class size is 22 students.
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B.E.N. offers an engaging, caring learning community.Focus is on qualities and skills alongside Ontario Curriculum. Small class sizes, daily outdoor activities, art classes and workshop. Parenting workshops are offered.
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