About us
Our approach
All about Reggio Emilia
Piccoli practices the Reggio Emilia Approach®, an internationally recognized and acclaimed approach to early childhood education.
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.
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.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Our Programs
Bebe
Infants 0-12m
Cost: Government Flat Rate — $326.25
Hours: Full-Time
Our Bebe program for children under 12 months old focuses on creating a nurturing, sensory-rich environment that encourages exploration, emotional security, and early development. Caregivers build strong, trusting relationships with each child, observing their individual needs and interests to guide learning experiences. With natural materials and flexible routines, the program fosters curiosity, language development, and social interaction, all while respecting each infant’s unique developmental pace. The approach values the family’s involvement and emphasizes the environment as a “third teacher,” providing a safe and stimulating space for infants to grow and learn.
Piccolo
Infants 12m-19m
Cost: Government Flat Rate — $326.25
Hours: Full-Time
Our Piccolo program for children aged 12-19 months old focuses on fostering independence, curiosity, and creativity in a safe, engaging environment. At this stage, infants are becoming more mobile and expressive, and caregivers create opportunities for exploration through hands-on, sensory-rich activities that promote motor skills, language development, and social interactions. The environment is filled with natural materials and open-ended toys to encourage problem-solving . Caregivers observe and document each child’s interests, using them to guide personalized learning experiences. The program emphasizes building strong relationships, communication, and respect for each child’s unique developmental journey.
Bambino
Toddlers 19m-3y
Cost: Government Flat Rate — $326.25
Hours: Full-Time
Our Bambino program for children aged 19-36 months encourages exploration, independence, and social development through a rich, interactive environment. At this stage, toddlers are increasingly verbal and capable of more complex interactions. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, where children engage with natural materials, open-ended toys, and activities that promote problem-solving, creativity, and fine motor skills. Caregivers facilitate group interactions, helping children navigate social skills such as sharing and cooperation while continuing to observe and document individual interests. The approach values the child’s voice, offering them choices and encouraging self-expression, all within a safe, welcoming space that nurtures their growing autonomy and curiosity.
Crescita
Preschoolers 3y-4y
Cost: Government Flat Rate — $326.25
Hours: Full-Time
Our Crescita program for children aged 3 to 4 years old focuses on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and social development in an environment that encourages exploration and active learning. At this stage, children are becoming more confident in their verbal communication and social interactions. The program provides opportunities for open-ended play, collaborative projects, and problem-solving activities that help strengthen cognitive and motor skills. Caregivers observe and document each child's progress, guiding their learning based on individual interests and needs. Emphasizing independence, self-expression, and collaboration, the program empowers children to make choices, express their ideas, and build meaningful connections with their peers and the environment.
Alto
Preschoolers 4y-5y
Cost: Government Flat Rate — $326.25
Hours: Full-Time
Our Alto program for children aged 4 to 5 years old focuses on enhancing creativity, critical thinking, and social skills in a dynamic and supportive environment. At this stage, children are refining their communication abilities, problem-solving skills, and capacity for collaborative work. The program encourages in-depth exploration of topics that interest the children through hands-on projects, group discussions, and artistic expression. Caregivers continue to observe and document each child’s development, using this information to guide individualized learning experiences. Emphasizing independence and self-direction, the program provides opportunities for children to take on leadership roles, make choices, and engage in activities that nurture their growing sense of autonomy and responsibility.
Meet the Team
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.
Daily Schedule
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Children arrive and settle into the day with free play, fostering creativity and connections.
Children are encouraged to enjoy a morning snack.
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Each day begins with a morning assembly, where children and educators gather as a community to greet one another, share stories, and discuss the day ahead, setting a thoughtful and joyful tone for the day’s explorations.
Children engage in independent and small-group projects, exploring their interests with gentle guidance from educators. We are outside for at least 2 hours a day, weather permits.
Children explore our outdoor space, green house, Atelier and other community spaces.
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Children tidy their classrooms, wash up and gather to share their morning experiences.
Meals are served as a community. Children and educators enjoy this time together, sharing stories and building a healthy relationship with food.
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After lunch, children prepare for rest by washing up and settling onto their beds. Soft music and dim lighting create a calm atmosphere.
Those who do not nap are invited to rest for 30-40 minutes before quiet activities such as reading or drawing.
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Children are greeted as they wake up and invited to have afternoon snack.
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The afternoon is an opportunity to revisit morning projects or dive into new learning experiences.
Children head back outside for more play in the fresh air.
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Children enjoy unstructured play indoors and out, as they wind down from the day.
Careers at Piccoli
Are you a passionate early childhood educator? We’re hiring! Apply now to join our team.
