The early years of a child’s life are crucial for brain development and future success. From birth to age five, the brain forms millions of connections that shape how a child learns, feels and interacts with the world. The first 1,000 days lay the groundwork for sensory and emotional development, while the following 1,000 support the emergence of complex skills such as reasoning, problem-solving and social awareness.
At Maple Bear, we understand that early childhood is not just preparation for school – it is a unique and powerful stage of life that deserves a nurturing, thoughtful and expertly guided approach.
Play is at the heart of all learning in our kindergarten programme. Through play, children explore the world around them, develop language, test ideas and express emotions. Our curriculum provides a rich variety of guided and free play experiences that support early literacy and numeracy, as well as creative and critical thinking skills.
Whether it’s role-playing, storytelling, building, singing or discovering nature, every playful moment is an opportunity for learning and self-expression. Our carefully prepared environment invites curiosity, experimentation and joy – the foundations of lifelong learning.
A significant part of our early years programme is dedicated to sensory-based activities, which are closely aligned with the developmental stage of preschool-aged children. Research shows that sensory play not only supports neural integration and self-regulation, but also plays a key role in helping children from multilingual environments find emotional and cognitive balance.
We place strong emphasis on fine motor skills, balance, and the development of both the left and right brain hemispheres – all of which are essential foundations for smoothly acquiring and using multiple languages. Our approach ensures that physical, sensory and linguistic development go hand in hand in a supportive and enriching atmosphere.
Children at Maple Bear Kindergarten are gently immersed in both English and Czech from the very beginning. Each group is guided by a native English-speaking teacher and a native Czech-speaking teacher, allowing both languages to be naturally present throughout the day. Our approach is based on the Canadian Language Immersion model, meaning children are not taught “about” a second language – they live it, use it and gradually make it their own.
Language development happens at each child’s own pace. We focus on natural exposure, understanding and comfort, allowing children to build confidence before they begin to speak. This immersive experience also encourages flexible thinking, empathy and communication across cultures.
Our curriculum is rooted in the respected Canadian early childhood education system, known for its excellence and innovation. It follows a child-centred philosophy, which sees each child as a competent, curious and capable individual.
Each of our nursery classes has a maximum of 20 children, allowing for a warm and personal atmosphere in which every child is known, supported and celebrated. Daily routines are balanced between active and quiet moments, group and individual play, teacher-guided activities and self-initiated exploration.
In our inclusive and safe environment, children are encouraged to take risks, express themselves, solve problems and build trusting relationships – all while developing a positive self-image and love of learning.
