We believe in the power of learning through play, nature, and community. To give you a closer look at Bumi Kecil’s unique educational approach, we sat down with our dedicated teachers to discuss their experiences and insights. Here’s what Ms. Fanni, Ms. Hani, Ms. Nadia, and Ms. Fanesha had to say about the philosophy, methods, and joys of teaching at Bumi Kecil.
Ms. Nadia, what is the overall philosophy and approach of Bumi Kecil’s early childhood program?
At Bumi Kecil, we are inspired by the principles of the Reggio-Emilia philosophy, encouraging students to explore their surroundings and immerse themselves in the world around them. Our approach is guided by four core values that shape everything we do. While we give students a lot of freedom to explore, we also provide structured classroom learning that is engaging and enjoyable.
Key learning areas are woven into our daily routines, from literacy and numeracy to cognitive and social-emotional development. We also emphasize the importance of connecting with nature—every day, our students care for the plants and ask questions about the natural world, fostering a sense of curiosity and environmental stewardship. Additionally, we encourage students to build connections with the local community, grounding their learning in real-world experiences.
Ms. Nadia, how do you integrate play-based learning into the daily routine?
Play-based learning is at the heart of our program. We create indoor exploration opportunities with provocation tables and sensory-rich materials that invite students to engage deeply with their environment. Our garden is like an “open library” offering a space where students can learn about themselves, from body balance to interpersonal skills. These experiences help our students to understand themselves better and foster a love for learning through play.
Ms. Hani, how do you accommodate different learning styles and developmental stages?
We understand that each child is unique, with different interests, learning styles, and developmental stages. At Bumi Kecil, we observe our students closely to tailor our teaching methods to their individual needs. Our child-centered projects are designed around the students’ interests, allowing them to explore and learn in ways that resonate with them.
We also provide a flexible learning environment, setting up the classroom with various materials to engage students in new ways. Collaborative learning is another key aspect, where students work in different groups, across different classes and ages, helping them develop social skills and learn from each other. Teachers continuously observe and support each child’s learning journey, ensuring they thrive in our environment.
Ms. Fanesha, how do you ensure a safe and nurturing environment for the students?
Safety and nurturing are our top priorities. We carefully select child-friendly materials for all our activities, and we remain attentive to the students’ needs throughout the day. By observing and responding to what students enjoy, we create an environment where they feel secure and supported.
Ms. Fanesha, what outdoor activities or experiences are included in the daily routine?
Our students begin their day with outdoor play before entering the classroom, setting a joyful tone for the day. After completing their individual or group activities indoors, they have the opportunity to choose from various outdoor stations, such as cognitive games, sports, swinging, climbing, reading, or the sandpit. These outdoor experiences allow students to engage in imaginative play and enjoy the freedom to explore.
Ms. Hani and Ms. Fanni, how do you foster positive relationships with your students?
Hani: Building strong, positive relationships with our students is essential. We create a safe environment where students feel heard and respected, listening to their ideas and validating their feelings. By encouraging open conversations and celebrating each child’s achievements, we strengthen the bond between teachers and students. Collaborative projects further enhance these relationships, creating a sense of community within the classroom.
Fanni: One of my favorite routines is our “big hug” during the closing circle at the end of the day. This simple gesture helps students feel connected to one another and builds trust with their teachers and peers. We also focus on validating students’ feelings and thoughts, ensuring they feel accepted and comfortable sharing anything with us.
Ms. Fanni, how do you approach behavioral challenges or conflicts between students?
Patience is key. When conflicts arise, it’s natural for adults to want to step in immediately, but sometimes it’s more beneficial to observe and let the students work things out on their own. They often have their own ways of resolving issues, and after the situation has calmed down, we review what happened and discuss how we can be kind and safe with each other. This approach helps students develop problem-solving skills and understand the impact of their actions.
Ms. Fanesha, how do you communicate with parents about their child’s progress and daily activities?
Communication with parents is ongoing and collaborative. In the morning, we check in with parents as they drop off their children, asking how they’re doing and if there are any specific concerns or activities to note. After school, we highlight the day’s activities, sharing insights into what their child enjoyed and accomplished. At the end of each second term, we hold conferences to discuss the child’s overall development and progress in more detail.
Ms. Nadia and Ms. Fanni, what do you enjoy most about working at Bumi Kecil?
Nadia: I love the free smiles, the hugs, and the laughter that fills our days from morning until afternoon. The warm, welcoming, and calming environment created by both the teachers and students is something truly special. We’re an open community where we can share and express so much, and that makes every day a joy.
Fanni: Teaching at Bumi Kecil is incredibly rewarding. I’ve been teaching for over four years, but here, I feel more appreciated and supported than ever. The beautiful environment—the clear sky, green trees, and flowers on my way to school—makes me feel grateful to come to work and have fun with our students. It’s a place where both teachers and students thrive.
At Bumi Kecil, our teachers are not just educators; they are nurturers, guides, and partners in your child’s learning journey. Their dedication to creating a joyful, supportive, and enriching environment is what makes our early childhood program truly special. We are proud of the community we’ve built and the impact we have on each child’s development.
For more insights and stories from our classrooms, stay tuned to our blog.