The LYKKE Approach
We believe children are capable, curious thinkers who thrive when given time to wonder, are trusted to follow their own ideas, and have an environment that gives them room to think, create and connect with others.
We create thoughtful learning experiences
for kids.
When kids spend much of their week moving from one thing to the next,
At LYKKE,
we make room
for something different.
We give kids time - to settle in, become absorbed, follow a question, return to an idea and see where their thinking takes them.
More time to wonder.
More opportunities
to think deeply.
More room for ideas
to unfold.
what does a day at LYKKE Kids look like?
Noticing something, asking a question, becoming curious about how something works.
Wondering
Building, drawing, designing, experimenting, taking something apart and trying again.
Making
Following an interest through materials, nature, movement, books, sensory experiences and the world around them.
Exploring
Sharing ideas, listening to others, negotiating, explaining their thinking and learning from one another.
Thinking Together
Developing literacy, numeracy, communication skills, problem solving and the habits of mind that support learning - with evidence-based practices through play
Building Skills
We’re thinking
big picture.
Based on international research, the Ontario Ministry of Education has defined seven important categories of transferable skills that students need in order to thrive in the modern world:
critical thinking and problem solving
innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship
self-directed learning
collaboration
communication
global citizenship and sustainability
digital literacy
These transferable skills are found in the Ontario Curriculum from Kindergarten to Grade 12 AND are foundational in our LYKKE programs!
Responsive
Pedagogy
At LYKKE Kids, we don’t follow one instructional approach - Montessori, Reggio, Waldorf....
We are drawing on 25+ years of teaching experience and professional learning, multiple research-based practices that are used around the world, and being selective and intentional with the instructional strategies we use to best meet the individual needs of the kiddos who are in front of us. Our practice is highly personalized and responsive.
We observe kids closely. We listen to their thinking and conversations. We notice what the kids are drawn to, what questions are emerging and use those observations to shape what happens next...
We might introduce a new material.
Ask a question.
Bring in a new book.
Change the environment.
Offer a challenge.
Step back.
Or give the kids more time.
It’s a challenging way to teach and it’s incredibly powerful for kids and their learning. We find it exciting that our practice continues to evolve as we keep learning and research in education and children’s learning advances.
LYKKE Kids offers a different kind of learning experience.
LYKKE isn’t a replacement for school. We value public education. We love how local schools help build relationships between neighbourhood kids. We appreciate what schools can offer all kids - libraries, sports teams and clubs, school concerts and more. And we also know firsthand the challenges and constraints in public education (we taught in public schools and were in leadership roles in public boards).
It’s why we’ve decided to create a place where kids can experience learning differently…
Is this a School?
Time to Wonder
Without rotary schedules and bells to determine our day, we can settle into learning with lots of time to wonder and a day filled with possibility.
Small Groups
As educators, with small groups (of 8 or less), we have the opportunity to notice more, respond more and know each child more deeply.
Learning Through Play
Play gives children space to test their ideas, solve problems, negotiate, imagine and make meaning.
Following Children’s Curiosity
Children’s questions and interests become invitations for deeper learning.
Real World Experiences
The world is our classroom! Learning can easily expand beyond our walls as we regularly visit art galleries, exhibits, ponds, and more!
What Families Have Shared
“When I see all of the creations he brings home, hear all his stories, and see this beaming pride and self-esteem about his ideas, I feel so grateful.”
— Parent of kiddo
in kindie program
“So grateful he is getting the opportunity for more connection and attention on Thursdays.”
— parent with kiddo in
a kindie class of 29 kids
“I find myself thinking - wow, she really sees my child; she really knows him. No wonder he has such a strong sense of belonging and deep affection for the little world you’ve helped them build together.”
— Parent of kiddo in last year's kindie program, and now SK/grade 1 this yearThe Learning Environment
The environment is our third teacher.
Knowing this, we carefully consider what children see, reach, touch, choose, and encounter.
Materials are intentional. Spaces evolve. There is room to work independently and alongside others. It is warm, welcoming, and kids feel at ease.
Find your child’s weekday LYKKE (joy / happiness)
ages 3 - 4
Little Ones
Tuesdays + Wednesdays
9 a.m. - noon
ages 4 - 6
Kindies
Thursdays
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
ages 6 - 7
SK / Grade 1
Fridays
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
ages 7 - 10
Creative Connection
for Big Kids!
More information coming soon!