by on 13/01/2023 4797
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In today’s society where the majority of parents are both working, the demand for reliable yet affordable day care continues to grow. Taska Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya, has a long, successful history of providing families with the solution by offering children a nurturing educational experience that goes beyond just basic child care. The nursery was founded by Madame Lui – a passionate and highly experienced teacher who loves the children as much as her profession – over 40 years ago, and to date, it stands proud as a very well sought-after early learning centre in the neighbourhood.
Housed within a cozy and harmonious environment, Taska Damansara Utama has put a lot of care into creating an inspired space that provokes creativity and fun, all in the context of learning. It’s a place where every step of each child’s journey is treasured, as they discover the world around them, grow and develop, and create happy memories. Above all, it’s a close-knit community of families from all ethnic backgrounds working alongside and supporting each other in the best interests of the children.
There are many key features that set Taska Damansara Utama apart from other nurseries and preschools, but one that stands out is that children here receive adequate individualised attention that is often difficult to come by in larger franchises. “We have decided very early on to dedicate ourselves to this branch and run it really well. And with the help of our team of teachers, all of whom are Permata KAP certified and bachelor’s degree graduates, we are glad to be offering families quality care and education that will benefit children and prepare them well for primary school,” says Michael Lui, son of the founder, who now oversees the whole nursery.
Taska Damansara Utama is the predecessor of the Learning Steps Academy. It is where children begin their First Step in a life of learning with the Learning Steps Program. Children between the ages of 2 months to 4 years old are provided with a wide variety of amazing opportunities to expand their repository of knowledge, cultivate their strengths and interests, and develop creative, adaptable skills. Music, stories, games, crafts, indoor and outdoor gross motor play, interactive activities – all the fun stuff – are integrated into lessons to give young learners a multisensorial experience. “Children have a blast here!” exclaims Michael. This puts children in good stead to progress to the next stage of their preschool journey.
In the Second Step, teachers focus on building confidence, self-esteem and strengthening academic fundamentals in the 5 main subjects – Bahasa Malaysia, English, Chinese, Mathematics and Science – through the Learning Steps Elite Program. This specialised learning model is the highlight of the academy for preparing children from all ethnic backgrounds, Chinese, Malay and Indian, with the skillset and core values to have a smooth transition to Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina ([SJKC][National Chinese Schools]). On top of that, children are encouraged to be bold and creative with activities that nurture their talents like singing, dancing, arts and crafts.
Lastly, comes the Third Step, where Standard 1 to Standard 6 primary school students from SJKC and SK are offered before- or after-school homework guidance, day care and tutoring services. Teachers help keep students on track in their studies in Bahasa Malaysia, English, Chinese, Mathematics and Science. Besides that, students get to participate in fun, educational activities held during school holiday study programs.
“Over the years, we have many children who come to us from as young as two months old and continue to be with us until they leave for secondary school,” shares Michael, which is a great testament to the quality of education, love and care offered at the Learning Steps Academy.
Taska Damansara Utama believes that a positive educational experience requires a symbiotic relationship where teachers are always ready to discuss and listen, and parents can freely voice their concerns too. The academy has a parent outreach program that supports single parents to ensure every child who steps through their doors gets the very best start to their learning journey.