Early Childhood Program
Resource
The Early Childhood Program is for children aged 3 to 6 years (Preschool to Kindergarten - International and Bilingual Pathways).
Play is at the heart of our Early Childhood approach, allowing children to discover the world around them and supporting the development of the whole child. Through play, children develop an essential set of skills and dispositions, including language acquisition and self-regulation. Children are inspired by their own ideas and innovations and are nourished as creative thinkers. They begin to develop as readers, writers and mathematicians, and a sense of wonder is fostered as they grow socially, emotionally and academically. Play sparks joy, imagination and curiosity; allowing children at their varying stages of readiness to connect ideas and learn.
Children are unique
Children come with their own story. They learn in different ways and at their own pace. Individual backgrounds and experiences are embraced.
Children are curious
Children make sense of the world around them by engaging with open-ended materials and environments and exploring their own theories.
Children are social
Children are co-constructors of knowledge and skills, learning with and from one another.
Children are capable
Children are self-managers, inquirers, and problem solvers. They make choices about what and how they learn.
Values and Practices
Play is at the heart of our Early Childhood approach, allowing children to discover the world around them and supporting the development of the whole child.
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Environment and Materials
Spaces and materials that stir imagination and thinking
Organization that allows choice, freedom and ownership
Learning outside of the classroom walls; in the forest, the garden and within the community
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Individual Learning Journeys
Adults guide learning by interacting, observing and listening as children play
Children are supported to grow as learners based on developmental readiness
Thinking and learning processes are visible in learning spaces.
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Time and Space
Uninterrupted play time and space for children to leave unfinished work to be continued
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Creativity and Imagination
Adults join in with children as they wonder and play
Unhurried time to explore child interests and wonderings; respecting the process
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Relationships
A nurturing environment that supports risk-taking
Caring, strong relationships between adults and children
Supportive, respectful partnerships between school and home
Welcome to the Lower School
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Start Your Enrolment Journey
Find out how to apply to Zurich International School and learn more about joining the Early Childhood or Bilingual Pathway programs.
Visit Our Campus and Learning Spaces
Take a virtual tour and see how our purpose-built Early Childhood and Lower School environments inspire curiosity, independence, and play-based exploration.
Becoming Part of the ZIS Community
Whether you’re relocating to Zurich or already living locally, we’ll guide you through the process of joining our international and bilingual school community and what to expect when joining.