Early years: What to look for when choosing a nursery in Dubai

Your child’s first day at nursery is always an emotional one for both parents and children alike. While the thought of having to choose an institution to entrust with your little one may seem overwhelming, it doesn’t need to be.

If you’re looking for a place to start, check out The Aga Khan Early Learning Centre (AKELC) in Dubai. The Oud Metha-based nursery has been accredited with globally recognised practices and awards in recent years, and offers part or full-day programmes year-round to suit a variety of parental needs.

Welcoming children from all nationalities, ethnic groups, religions, and races, the AKELC puts a major emphasis on its high-quality bilingual (Arabic/English) nursery and preschool programme for children aged 12 months to 4 years. Professionally trained and qualified multi-lingual early childhood educators provide nurturing and responsive care based on the U.K. Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Curriculum. It’s worth noting that this curriculum is also aligned with the internationally recognised early years approach, High Scope.

The non-profit centre, housed in a purpose-built facility with spacious classrooms, large gym, fully stocked library and two outdoor play areas with purposeful materials and equipment, focuses on engaging children’s interest and development from the moment they step through the door.

Large windows create unity between the inside area and outside gardens and provide an abundance of natural light. The outdoor area is designed to allow children to explore the environment in a safe place. A garden, sand play area, bicycle trail and climbing unit encourage the development of children’s creativity, imagination, and small and large motor skills. Regardless of weather conditions, the children have the opportunity to participate in physical activities in a large indoor gym specially designed for young children.

To learn more about AKLEC, or to arrange a visit to the nursery, visit the website or call +971 4 336 7676.