Our Curriculum

Learning Through Love, Play, and Purpose

At NEST Early Learning Center, our curriculum is designed to nurture young minds during the most critical years of development — from 18 months to 4 years. We follow a child-centered, play-based learning approach, inspired by national ECD frameworks and enriched by our unique community context.

Guided by the ECD Foundations

We align with the Early Learning and Development Areas (ELDAs) as outlined by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and Department of Social Development (DSD) in South Africa. These include:

• Well-being

• Identity and Belonging

• Communication

• Exploring Mathematics

• Creativity

• Knowledge and Understanding of the World

Each area supports our goal to develop the whole child, blending learning and care in every activity.

What We Teach – A Glimpse Into the NEST Day

Our weekly program includes:

• Language & Literacy: Storytime, songs, rhymes, vocabulary building

• Numeracy: Counting games, sorting, patterns, and basic math concepts

• Creative Arts: Drawing, painting, music, dancing, and crafts

• Physical Development: Movement, fine/gross motor skills, outdoor play

• Life Skills: Routines, hygiene, independence, and emotional awareness

• Discovery & Science: Nature walks, sensory play, simple experiments

• Technology Awareness (phase-based): Age-appropriate exploration of tools, shapes, and logic-based play

Daily Routine Highlights

• Morning Circle Time

• Themed Activities

• Free Play & Exploration

• Outdoor Play

• Nutritious Meal Times

• Nap & Quiet Time

• Reflection and Goodbye Song

Themes That Bring Learning to Life

We use monthly or weekly themes (like My Body, My Family, Seasons, Community Helpers, Animals, etc.) to create immersive, memorable learning experiences.

Culturally Rooted, Future-Facing

Our curriculum celebrates local stories, languages, and traditions while also preparing children to thrive in a modern world — helping them build confidence, compassion, and curiosity.