The Library

In houses in Canada, there is often a basement under the house that is dug in. I still think it is weird that there are windows at ground level when you look at houses. In the basement level of this centre is a library where small groups of children retreat with a teacher to relax with literature.

This sign is on the door as you enter at children's level

There are wing back chairs for the children to sit at a listening post, just like a country club library. Seriously, there has been careful consideration to provide an environment that communicates to children that they are valued and respected.

The piano is there for a musical recital

Books....books...

and more books - built in shelves to house the library collection, creating spaces that the children are familiar with and invite a different kind of interaction. I have never seen a library like this in a centre before as a dedicated space and I think it is awesome!

Boxes of interest for the 'early risers'

The older children have indoor learning spaces in the basement of the house. It is a larger room and the children have lots of space. The children rest and for those that wake early, these interest boxes are available 'quiet' time while other children continue to sleep. A teacher stays in teh room with the sleeping children and updates the portfolio blogs - yes you read correctly - there is a blog for every child to share the learning experiences.