Eduwis Kuchai Lama, Kuala Lumpur

Eduwis Kuchai Lama, Kuala Lumpur is part of the Eduwis education brand, known for its holistic approach to early childhood education. 

The preschool stands out for its high-quality programme, which is highly influenced by Australia’s Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and integrated with local elements – providing a well-rounded learning experience for children aged three to six. 

The Kuchai Lama branch is helmed by the principal. As a mother of three herself, she understands the importance of good education in shaping a child’s early years, and this is reflected in the centre’s teaching approach and philosophies.

Enabling children to reach their maximum potential

Eduwis Kuchai Lama provides a rich array of activities designed to stimulate children's curiosity and creativity. 

The preschool spans three floors and boasts facilities such as a playground, music corner, piano, science corner, kitchen corner, and role play corner. These spaces allow children to engage in hands-on learning experiences, which are crucial for young minds.

Music education is a significant part of the curriculum, with every child learning to play the piano. Through short, daily practice sessions, children can practice consistently without losing focus, and reap the benefits of learning music, such as improved coordination and cognitive skills. 

The best of educational philosophies under one roof

Eduwis’ approach draws inspiration from the theories of notable educationists, including Erik Erikson, Friedrich Froebel, Loris Malaguzzi, Maria Montessori, Jean Piaget, Shinichi Suzuki, Lev Vygotsky, and Confucius. 

Each of these educationists has contributed unique insights into child development, and Eduwis has thoughtfully blended these to create a robust educational framework.

For instance, the preschool adopts Vygotsky’s emphasis on language development and social interactions, facilitating a collaborative and communicative environment. 

From Montessori, Eduwis incorporates practices that nurture self-independence and practical life skills. This integration ensures that children receive a balanced education, addressing their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

The Thematic Integrated Learning Activities programme, an innovative approach pioneered by Eduwis, ties all subjects together under overarching themes and includes over 1,600 different learning activities. 

A theme like "My Body Parts", for example, might be explored through art projects, songs, storytelling, and physical activities. This makes learning more engaging and also helps children to apply their knowledge to real-world concepts. 

Another way in which Eduwis Kuchai Lama encourages children to develop their critical-thinking skills is through discussion-based activities. During circle time, teachers pose open-ended questions to stimulate thought and dialogue. 

According to the principal, children at Eduwis Kuchai Lama are active, enthusiastic, and keen to ask questions and explore, thanks to the way in which teachers conduct classes. The teaching approach is tailored to the child’s learning capabilities and development, so from time to time, the school readjusts the tools, activities, and facilities to help children better develop unique skillsets.

For example, a simple question about a towel can lead to discussions about its use, and children are free to express their ideas and thoughts creatively. The idea is not to tell children what to think, but rather how to think. In this way, they become more articulate and confident – values and skills which are difficult to cultivate through pure study alone. 

To complement its curriculum, Eduwis Kuchai Lama organises events such as storytelling presentations, sports days, and field trips to help nurture the child’s talents and interests, building them up into well-rounded individuals. 

“We allow the children to learn at their own pace. As teachers, our role is to guide and lead them to be the best version of themselves and truly understand what their learning is about, rather than moulding them into how we want them to be,” says the principal.

She adds that a key approach here is not to run the franchise as a business, but truly aim for the growth of children in their development. “Our benchmark is not about comparing how children do against each other or having the highest score, but seeing genuine improvement,” she says.

Health and nutrition

Eduwis Kuchai Lama prioritises every aspect of a child’s development, and that includes nutrition and safety. Meals are prepared in-house daily so children get a balanced diet. The preschool avoids fried foods, opting instead for steamed dishes and soups with less salt and oil. 

To ensure all of the facilities are safe and well kept, the school does checking and maintenance on tools, materials, as well as the building during the school holidays, not just to minimise safety risks and disruption to classes, but also to make sure that the children get to enjoy the best facilities possible.

As for teachers, all Eduwis Kuchai Lama’s educators are qualified with either diplomas or degrees in early childhood education, or extensive experience teaching preschoolers. Open communication with parents is a highlight here as well, and parents are free to message or schedule an appointment with the school’s teachers and administration to discuss each child’s progress. 

Conclusion

Eduwis Kuchai Lama offers a nurturing, stimulating, and well-rounded early childhood education experience. By integrating the best practices from eight educational theorists and providing a thematic, hands-on learning environment, the school ensures that every child develops the skills and confidence they need for future success.