Mission Statement

Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre’s mission is to support and enhance each child’s physical, social,

emotional, creative, and intellectual growth, through play-oriented learning.

Program Philosophy

Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre (AGCC) strives to meet each child’s individual learning needs in

a strengths-based approach. Educators provide nurturing care, and they respect the

characteristics of each child. Guidance is positive. The child follows their developmental path while

interacting with a stimulating environment, peers, and caring adults.

Child-centered, self-directed play promotes growth and development by fostering a child’s natural

curiosity. We facilitate learning through interactive and imaginary play, and we cultivate a

relationship with nature at every opportunity. Learning is enhanced by the expertise and

collaboration of our Educators who provide developmentally appropriate activities that nurture

each child through hands-on learning experiences. Our program recognizes the diversity of our

children and seeks to meet the individual needs of each child’s unique development level and

learning style.

Values

Curiosity – We strive to nurture each child’s sense of wonder, curiosity, and innate

desire to learn through exploration, discovery, play and creative expression.

Diversity – Each child is unique; we respect their diverse learning styles, families,

cultures, and communities.

Expertise - Educators are valued for their knowledge, collaboration, and

commitment to child-centered, early childhood education.

Independence – Children learn best in a safe, supportive, non-competitive,

respectful, and accepting atmosphere. Educators encourage and teach children

independence and self-help skills to provide them with a sense of accomplishment

and autonomy.

Play-oriented Learning – Children learn in stimulating environments that

encourage educational experiences built on creative, play-oriented activities that

engage all their senses.

What does this look like in our programs?

Our educators provide open ended art opportunities, active game ideas, and play inspirations. We do not follow an activity schedule or do guided crafts, but instead support each child to create their own play or art creation individually and with their peers, creating space for individual interests and passions to flourish. We provide options for various energy levels to support self regulation through our programs. Our groups often take advantage of the variety of playgrounds, forests, and beaches close by before heading back to the Studios or the Gym to play inside at the end of the day.