Current Policy and Procedures

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Here is a list of out policy and procedures up for download and reference. Please see Beliw for the download Link.

last update 2020

Here at ABC Metawitan we draw from a variety of preschool philosophies but do not adhere or copy any philosophy in it’s entirety. Montessori is a great philosophy and is one that is heavily integrated into our program. Montessori has a heavy emphasis on independence and following the learning needs of the child using a strength-based, child centered approaches. It uses simple and natural materials to spark curiosity, imagination and focus. On the other hand Montessori has been criticized for being overly structured, quiet and strictly refrains from imaginary play because of the belief it confuses children. Using a strict Montessori approach items are used for their purpose only and not creatively. Here at ABC Metawitan we do things differentl. Therefore, at our center play-based philosophies, social , systems , Reggio and more is also encouraged in our program. Here  we incorporate plenty of opportunity for free play, imagination and social learning interactions. Here children are encouraged to use items creatively provided it is safe. Alternatively,  the structure that is incorporated from components of Waldorf is also critical to foster a healthy routine and predictability for children which is shown to damper child frustrations and minimizing overly emotional behaviours.  A social justice lens is also a critical part of our program. We understand that the child is part of a culture, a family and a community and seek to grow in understanding and respect for each individual. Incorporating Indigenous culture and understanding of colonial oppression is done in ways that are age appropriate and that foster and reconcile relationships. We understand that outside the walls , and unfortunately sometimes inside too, these children have varying degrees of opportunity and challenges and  we seek to support families and children through whatever struggles they are facing.  Reggio is a philosophy that is incorporated in our program. At ABC Metawitan we use  Reggio Emilia philosophies  to incorporate project approaches but not in the way you may remember projects when you were in school. Children can start projects just by curiosity in a subject and can be revisited at any time. Projects are formed through questions and curiosity among peers instead of a classroom themes like many of us remember.  Reggio Emilia beliefs are also incorporated when children learn through mistakes rather than correction, as they are considered equal learners to teachers. Sometimes this approach does not fit within our current western culture because we are not located in town square Italy and we do not have the same sense of community and unified culture.  Sometimes even more traditional teacher – child interactions have their purpose. By using collaborative approaches we can acknowledge each child individualism and customize care to the needs of the child, the family and the community and no learning style is forgotten.