Le Cocon Family Day Care offers a unique approach and curriculum based on a combination of our own experience and the work philosophers, psychologists, paediatricians and scientists from around the world. A great deal of research and consideration goes into our selection of resources to maximise the development of children's skills.
French culture & language immersion
An important and unique characteristic of Le Cocon Family Day Care is immersion in French language and culture. Languages and cultures are much easier to learn earlier in life, and with more than a decade’s experience in introducing them to children, we can confidently say that there are enormous benefits to be had. Research also suggests that children with more than one language and culture have superior memories, mental flexibility, attention control, task switching, creativity and problem-solving skills.
Development of executive functions
Executive functions are the mental processes which enable us to act in an organised way to achieve our objectives. They are crucial for learning and researchers have identified a window of opportunity for dramatic growth in these functions between the ages of three and five. Numerous studies (the most famous being the ‘Marshmallow Test’) have demonstrated that well-developed executive functions offer better chances of success and fulfilment in life than a high IQ.
At Le Cocon Family Day Care, we have created environments which are conducive to the development of executive functions. From putting on their shoes to completing puzzles, we encourage children to exercise their executive functions. By completing these tasks, they must focus their attention, control their movements and emotions, plan their actions and remain flexible if mistakes occur.
Nurturing, compassion & sense of community
At Le Cocon Family Day Care, the children grow up under our love and care and the bonds that we create form a strong foundation for their lives. We actively encourage the expression of feelings and emotions, and as a result, children develop a sense of respect and empathy towards each other. To help develop this further, we group, where possible, children of different ages together. As adults, we act as role models, present to activate the incredible potential of each child in any domain they are interested in and respecting who they want to become. This means that we ask parents and ourselves to listen to the desires of the children in our care and respond accordingly, without any prejudice or pre-conceived ideas based on gender, age, culture, background, etc. Importantly, our care does not stop at the door. We regularly gather with our families for celebrations and events and involve children in community-based activities relevant to our curriculum and their interests.
Real, hands-on environment
At Le Cocon Family Day Care, we adhere to the principle that children must first be introduced to the real world and know the difference between what is real and what is not before being introduced to fantasy. Cartoons, legends and screen time are not present at Le Cocon Family Day Care. What we offer is for children to develop their imaginations without adult involvement. This involves a lot of hands-on activities and time spent outdoors, particularly in our permaculture garden where children explore the natural world.
Sustainable values
Both through our own actions and by integrating into our curriculum, we teach children about the importance of sustainability and the health of the planet. Examples include caring for wildlife, minimising waste (water, paper etc) and recycling.
Environment as a teacher
At Le Cocon Family Day Care, a great deal of research and consideration goes into creating environments that reflect our values. Spaces are welcoming, clean, organised and aesthetically pleasing. Their layout promotes relationships, communication, collaboration and exploration through open-ended play in a calm and homely space. They are also tailored to children’s interests and developmental stages.
We are passionate learners and, as a result, our knowledge and personal philosophy will continue to evolve with your child
