About Us
Kleutermaatjies is a unique and exclusive learning centre for children aged 3 months to 5 years, with Gr. R coming soon! Our exceptional facilities and picturesque playgrounds provide the perfect setting to ensure that your child is cared for and taught in a stimulating and peaceful environment.
INFORMED
The importance of a balanced Early Childhood Development programme for future academic success was already pointed out by practitioners and researchers in the 20th century. However, during the past few decades, our knowledge about the developing child has increased dramatically. We now have a much richer understanding of the intricate relation between the cognitive, emotional, social and physical development in the early years and formal schooling. This knowledge enables us to provide an Early Childhood programme that is both in line with children’s developmental milestones and the requirements of the 21st century.
RESEARCH
Core Beliefs
At Kleutermaatjies, we have 6 core beliefs that serve as the framework for our ECD programme. They are informed by the latest research from the interdisciplinary field of Mind, Brain and Education - combining Psychology, Cognitive Science and Pedagogy into everyday teaching practice.
Learning happens in human brains and results in permanent changes to long term memory. This means that teachers, parents and caregivers are “brain changers” - a significant responsibility, which we take seriously.
​
​
Learning is both incremental and dependent on prior knowledge. Therefore, our MiniGenius curriculum provides the literacy, numeracy and contextual general knowledge that is a necessity for school readiness. ​
The human brain is embodied meaning we learn via our senses and our bodies. Hence, we firmly believe in directed play-based learning, a core aspect of our MiniGenius curriculum.
​
Due to the brain's inherent neuroplasticity, every child has the ability to learn. This does not mean that each child develops exactly the same, but ideally that each child must be given the opportunities and environment that is best suited to their development.​
Milestones such as fine- and gross-motor skills, language, numeracy and many more are tied to the brain's architecture and development. This is why our MiniGenius curriculum is designed on brain-based principles of teaching and learning.
​
Emotional and physical well-being are key requirements for intellectual success. This means that homes and pre-schools must be caring, safe and nurturing environments, if children are to develop and thrive academically.
