Learning Area
ELC supports the 6 areas of development in the early years:
- Approaches to Learning
- Social and Emotional Development
- Physical Development & Health
- Language, Literacy & Communication
- Cognitive Development
- Creative Arts
Right Brain Development Program
At KIA, we believe that parents should start nurturing and teaching young children as early as possible to maximize their learning potential during the crucial “window of opportunity” period. This phase spans between the ages of 0-6 years, a time when children’s brains are highly receptive to learning and development. During this critical period, the brain exhibits its highest plasticity—able to modify its own structure to make new connections and strengthen existing ones. Additionally, young children are intrinsically motivated to learn and driven by their innate curiosity, which makes teaching easier.
The right brain is responsible for images, inspiration, and sensitivity. It processes and stores large amounts of information at high speed. From birth to 3 years of age, the right brain is dominant, and we can stimulate the right side of the brain by showing large amounts of information at a fast pace.
At Kansai International School, right brain development lessons are based on cutting-edge neuroscience research, and more than 20,000 flashcards are used in our skill development classes and ELC classes (for infants and toddlers).
Additionally, the right brain strength nurtured during this period is smoothly connected to the left brain through a program unique to our integrated kindergarten and elementary/junior high school education program, which stimulates the brain in a balanced way. This early and balanced stimulation of the brain helps each child reach their full potential at school.
English Circle Time
During the first three years of life, it’s believed that the brain is at its most active stage and displays a remarkable capacity to absorb information.
At Kansai International School, right brain development lessons are based on cutting-edge neuroscience research. Throughout the year we follow the annual themes and more than 20,000 flashcards are used in our ELC classes.
Other activities in Circle Time could also include reading stories or singing songs together!
Japanese Time
Japanese Time is fully taught in Japanese and is aligned with the English Circle Time. Children are led in song, story time, and introduction of hiragana, katakana, Kanji, Japanese holidays/traditions, and practice the songs throughout each month.
Activity Time
Activity time is an important part of our day, and usually involves small-group and large-group activities. Students will work together on a theme-related activity led by a teacher, experiment with creative arts and movements, engage in dramatic play and sensory motor activities.
Constructive Play Time
Children’s interests and choices are at the heart of our program. This is a time where our students focus on play and exploration on their own alongside their teachers.
Outside Playtime
Most of our classes spend 20 minutes outside if the weather permits. During this unstructured playtime, our children are encouraged to explore the world around them and test out their growing physical skills.
