A thoughtfully designed early learning curriculum in Calgary
At Little Wonders Academy, children learn through a balanced program that combines Structured Education + STEAM, emergent curriculum, early literacy, purposeful play and respectful guidance for children from 12 months to 6 years.
Each classroom is designed to support confidence, independence, creativity, emotional growth and school readiness at the right stage of development.
A carefully balanced program for every stage
Our curriculum gives children structure without removing curiosity. Educators combine intentional teaching, child-led discovery and caring relationships so learning feels meaningful, calm and developmentally appropriate.
Structured Education + STEAM
Emergent Curriculum
Respectful guidance
Emergent learning shaped around each child
Our emergent curriculum follows children’s interests, needs and abilities. Through observation, meaningful relationships and intentional planning, educators create learning experiences that feel relevant to each child.
Children work toward age-appropriate goals in curiosity, confidence, communication, independence, self-esteem and early academic readiness while still having room to explore, imagine and play.
- Child-led exploration and purposeful play
- Observation-led individualized planning
- Developmentally appropriate, achievable goals
STEAM and early literacy foundations
Little Wonders Academy places a thoughtful focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, together with early reading, storytelling and language-rich routines.
Children are introduced to inquiry, building, experimenting, patterns, vocabulary, books and creative expression in ways that match their age and developmental stage.
Learning designed for Seedlings, Sprouts and Saplings
Each classroom supports a different stage of development with routines, materials, educator guidance and learning goals that fit the age group.
Seedlings
12–19 months. A nurturing environment focused on secure attachments, predictable routines, sensory exploration, early communication and gentle movement.
Sprouts
19–36 months. Language, movement, independence, emotional regulation, social discovery and confidence through guided play and caring routines.
Saplings
3 to 6 years. STEAM, early literacy, social skills, creativity, problem-solving, independence and school readiness for the transition into the next stage.
Purposeful learning experiences
Children learn through relationships, movement, language, inquiry, creative expression and daily routines that support the whole child.
Literacy & language
Stories, conversation, songs, vocabulary, print awareness and early reading foundations.
Hands-on STEAM
Experiments, building, patterns, art, age-appropriate technology concepts and problem-solving.
Movement & wellbeing
Physical activity, healthy routines, sensory experiences, confidence and emotional regulation.
Structured mornings and responsive afternoons
Mornings include intentional Structured Education + STEAM experiences that introduce literacy, inquiry, building, patterns, problem-solving, art and movement.
Afternoons remain responsive to the emergent curriculum, classroom interests, outdoor play, rest, creative expression and the social-emotional needs of the group.
Positive behaviour guidance
We understand behaviour as communication. Children learn best when they feel safe, valued and connected.
Educators use predictable routines, visual cues, respectful language, age-appropriate choices, co-regulation, social coaching and natural or logical consequences. The goal is not shame or punishment; the goal is learning, connection and emotional growth.
- Prevention first and connection before correction
- Learning rather than punishment
- Natural and logical consequences
- Calming spaces, breathing exercises and sensory tools
- Observation, family collaboration and support plans when needed
- No physical punishment, threats, humiliation or denial of basic needs
How we support behaviour and emotional growth
Our guidance approach is proactive, respectful, inclusive and developmentally appropriate.
Core principles
Prevention first, connection before correction, respectful communication, learning instead of punishment, and inclusive, culturally responsive support.
Daily strategies
Predictable routines, visual cues, age-appropriate choices, social skills coaching, positive acknowledgement and natural or logical consequences.
When support is needed
Educators observe patterns, communicate with families and create support plans when needed. Physical punishment, threats, humiliation, isolation and denial of basic needs are not used.
Educator standards behind the curriculum
Our educators and assistants are expected to support high-quality early learning in both individual and group settings. Their work reflects our mission, core values, Structured Education + STEAM approach and commitment to respectful care.
Educators build meaningful relationships, maintain safe and organized classrooms, support independence and social skills, document learning and work collaboratively with families and the centre team.
- Professionalism and compliance with provincial childcare regulations
- Trusting relationships with every child and family
- Teamwork, communication and continuous growth
- Support for life skills, manners, social skills and confidence
- Observation, documentation and individualized planning
Enrichment beyond the classroom
Weekly enrichment partners add movement, teamwork and joyful variety to each classroom. Current programs include Jumping Jellies and Soccer Heroes, with a guided one-hour experience adapted for every age group.
Extra-curricular activities that add movement and confidence
Weekly enrichment partners bring movement, rhythm, teamwork and creative variety into the learning week.
Jumping Jellies
A guided one-hour movement and dance-based enrichment experience that supports coordination, rhythm, confidence and joyful participation.
Soccer Heroes
A guided one-hour sports experience that introduces teamwork, movement skills, listening, confidence and age-appropriate physical activity.
Across age groups
Activities are adapted for the classroom stage so children can participate safely and meaningfully.
Nutrition, movement and wellbeing are part of learning
Learning is supported by the whole child. Children receive healthy morning and afternoon snacks prepared with dietary considerations in mind, while families provide a nut-free packed lunch.
Daily routines include movement, outdoor time, rest, self-help skills and calm transitions that help children feel secure and ready to participate.
- Fresh morning and afternoon snacks
- Nut-free packed lunches from home
- Outdoor play and physical activity
- Calming strategies and emotional regulation
- Respect for dietary needs and family communication
Frequently asked curriculum questions
Answers to common questions families ask when comparing childcare, preschool and early learning programs in Calgary.
Is the curriculum structured or play-based?
Both. Mornings include Structured Education + STEAM, while the emergent curriculum protects child-led discovery, purposeful play and responsive learning.
Do children learn early literacy?
Yes. Children experience stories, songs, conversation, vocabulary, print awareness and early reading foundations in age-appropriate ways.
How do you prepare children for school?
Children build confidence, independence, problem-solving, social skills, emotional regulation, early literacy and STEAM foundations before the transition to school.
We are currently recruiting qualified educators
We value professionalism, thoughtful practice, teamwork and continuous growth. Current areas of interest may include Preschool Teacher Level 3, Toddler Teacher, Infant Teacher and On-Call Educators.
Choosing the right early learning program matters
Visit us, meet the team and see how our curriculum comes alive across Seedlings, Sprouts and Saplings.