About us

Piccoli is an all-new early learning centre offering programs for children ages 0 months to 6 years, including kindergarten before- and after-school care. Our centre practices the Reggio Emilia Approach®, an internationally recognized and acclaimed approach to early childhood education.

THE Reggio Emilia Approach®

While a strict instructor-led curriculum may suit some learners, this one-size-fits-all approach can lead to gaps where children feel excluded, discouraged, and misunderstood.

Reggio celebrates all children in their uniqueness. The student-led, inquiry-based approach treats kids as active constructors rather than passive participants in learning. Best of all, the Reggio approach meets critical development needs while making learning fun, motivating, and accessible to all.

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Early intervention and developmental support

Piccoli provides early intervention and developmental support services, including:

Assessments: Every child who opts in receives a developmental assessment in collaboration with Kids Developmental Services.
Targeted Supports: Access to speech therapists and other specialists, along with an Individual Program Plan (IPP) that transitions with the child into school.
FSCD Application Assistance: Guidance and support for families navigating the Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) application process.

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Our Space

Our space has been intentionally designed to support the Reggio Emilia Approach®, with sensory-friendly, nature-inspired interiors, a private outdoor environment, and our very own greenhouse.

Piccoli’s 4 Pillars

ACTIVE EXPLORERS

Movement matters, every single day. At Piccoli, kids explore both indoor and outdoor environments, engaging in a range of physical activities. We instill a connection to nature and encourage children to embrace the wonders of the world around them.
CONFIDENT COMMUNICATORS

Relationships are integral to the Reggio approach. Children collaborate with peers and educators daily, instilling the values of teamwork, community, and respect. They learn the importance of independence and leadership, including how to be mindful and take initiative.
CURIOUS THINKERS

Curiosity is one of the most beautiful parts of early childhood. We encourage children to embrace it, presenting them with open-ended learning opportunities, and allowing them to develop critical problem-solving and critical thinking skills along the way.
KIND HEARTS

Early childhood is filled with big feelings. Through art, storytelling, and movement, children learn to identify and express emotions healthily. With greater self-awareness and empathy, children can share the beauty and brilliance of their budding minds.

Meet the Team

vICTORIA baKER

Owner & Founder

Victoria is the visionary behind Piccoli. With over a decade of leadership and coaching experience, and a lifelong commitment to advocating for children, she brings heart and purpose to everything she does.

With five children of her own (three girls and twin boys) Victoria knows how powerfully Reggio Emilia nurtures each child’s individuality, curiosity, and potential. Her passion for early childhood education deepened when her youngest son, Luca, was diagnosed with autism. Navigating assessments, therapies, and early intervention opened her eyes to just how essential it is for families to feel included and understood.

This experience inspired Victoria to create a centre where every child truly belongs. The Reggio Emilia philosophy resonated with her for its child-led, relationship-centred approach that celebrates creativity, interdependence, and each child’s uniqueness.

Victoria is dedicated to creating a space where early learning and early intervention go hand in hand. Piccoli reflects her belief that children thrive when they feel safe, valued, and supported by their community, when their strengths are celebrated, and when they are free to explore at their own pace.

Her vision for Piccoli is simple: A place where every child feels seen. Every family feels supported. And every child can thrive in their own way.

Shayla Kolewaski

Director

Shayla has 13+ years of experience in childcare, starting her career in Early Childhood Education in British Columbia before relocating to Alberta in late 2016. With her background in management and training within the field, Shayla has successfully led and supported numerous early childhood educators in providing high-quality childcare.

Passionate about building strong relationships with children and their families, Shayla is dedicated to creating a sense of community where children can thrive as they navigate their learning journeys. She believes that a collaborative environment is crucial for fostering success in both educators and children. Shayla views partnerships with parents and community organizations as essential in enriching each child’s learning experience. Her personal philosophy emphasizes that all children can learn when provided with an open, supportive environment, strong leadership, a committed and knowledgeable team, and active family involvement.

Shayla is married, has one child, and two dogs. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, supporting her son in his extracurricular activities, and reading.

Kerry Cooper

Assistant Director

Kerry has over 20 years of experience in early childhood education and leadership. Throughout her career, she has supported children, families, and educators with a focus on creating meaningful connections and environments where every child can thrive. With a strong belief in meeting children where they are at, Kerry is dedicated to fostering growth, resilience, and a sense of belonging within the classroom community.

She values strong partnerships with families and works closely with educators to ensure children are supported in both their learning and development. Kerry’s approach emphasizes collaboration, compassion, and the importance of nurturing each child’s unique strengths.

Kerry is a proud mother of five and grandmother of one. In her spare time, she loves exploring all parts of Calgary, especially since she was born and raised in British Columbia. She brings both her professional expertise and personal passion into her role every day.