Our Journey in Early Years

Smiling’s Early Years program marks the beginning of a wonderful adventure for children aged 2 to 5. Within a welcoming and vibrant environment, all learning and play experiences take place in a bilingual setting. Our international team of teachers engages with children in both Italian and English, nurturing little global citizens from the very start.

While following the Italian national curriculum, our Early Years curriculum is greatly enriched by the expertise and diverse backgrounds of our educators through thoughtfully designed Educational and Annual Projects.

Play and structured activities are at the heart of our Early Years philosophy. These experiences help children develop their full potential—intellectually, emotionally, and socially—while always prioritizing their well-being.

From the very beginning of the settling-in period, we encourage active parental involvement to foster strong, collaborative relationships and share in the children’s educational journey. Teachers are available weekly for individual meetings, and families take part in school life through special annual events such as the Christmas Party, International Week, Book Day, and Sports Day. These occasions promote social connection, teamwork, and a deep sense of belonging to the Smiling Community.

Our Early Years Classes

2 YEARS

Happy Hedgehogs

Children begin their journey of self-discovery by building secure, trusting relationships with their teachers.

With gentle support and guidance, they gradually explore their environment, develop new skills, and adapt to school life. For many, this marks their very first school experience—a special milestone full of new beginnings.

We invite all parents to meet with their child’s teachers at the end of August—or earlier if preferred—to create a personalized plan that supports each child’s transition and growth.

 

3 YEARS

Busy Bees

The Busy Bees classrooms buzz with energy and activity, welcoming our three-year-old children into a nurturing learning environment. Supported by a dedicated team of qualified, native Italian and English-speaking teachers, each child is guided along their unique learning journey.

An initial settling-in period helps children build secure relationships with their teachers and feel comfortable in their new surroundings. They have the freedom to explore the space and make new friends.

Classrooms are thoughtfully divided into different areas where children engage in a variety of structured play activities. From role-play to construction, dancing to storytelling, painting to running, and creating to exploring—Busy Bees are always involved in hands-on, interactive experiences. Our teachers support their learning by helping them make meaningful connections and develop essential language skills.

4 YEARS

Cool Caterpillars

Our four-year-old Cool Caterpillars follow a carefully designed program led by our team of qualified native Italian and English-speaking teachers. 

Throughout the year, children deepen their language skills as they begin to communicate verbally in both English and Italian. They also explore language creatively through activities such as painting, dancing, counting, clay modelling, small world play, drama, writing, and other hands-on projects.

5 YEARS

Butterflies

The bubbly and lively Butterflies classes represent the final year of Early Years. Both classes follow the same carefully planned curriculum, designed by our team of qualified native Italian and English-speaking teachers. 

Mornings are typically spent between the classrooms, gym, and school gardens, following a timetable similar to that of Primary students. This approach supports a smooth transition into Primary school life. Children are encouraged to develop pre-writing and reading skills through cross-curricular projects, role-play areas, structured activities, and playtime.

Starting in the Butterflies classes, children join the “houses” project and begin earning points through the House Point System. This fun, social activity connects them with elementary school students and helps foster a seamless transition to Primary school.

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