Welcome to ABS Early Years Learning Centre
At ABS Early Years Learning Centre, we are dedicated to nurturing the unique potential of each child. Our mission is built on the belief that every child deserves a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where they can thrive. Guided by our core principles of community, creativity, and caring, we provide a childcare experience designed to promote individual social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
Our Vision
Established in The Gambia, ABS caters to children aged 6 months to 5 years, focusing on holistic education that nurtures independence, creativity, and lifelong learning skills. Inspired by Montessori principles, we emphasize a child-centred approach that fosters natural curiosity and growth.
In addition to our commitment to holistic education, we integrate aspects of the British education system while prioritizing French language instruction. Given the English-speaking nature of The Gambia and the strong ties many Gambians have with neighbouring Senegal, our approach also cultivates cultural understanding, language proficiency, and global awareness. This prepares children for success in an increasingly diverse world.
ABS Afrique was founded by two visionary women with degrees in child psychology from the University of Regents London and over 10 years of childcare experience. They recognized the need for dedicated childcare services in The Gambia and established a service that reflects their educational expertise and cultural values. Their vision is shaped by the belief that raising a child is a collective effort, akin to a village where everyone involved becomes family. Today, ABS is committed to providing exceptional childcare, guided by this collective vision and a dedicated commitment to excellence.
Innovative Teaching Methodology
Under the guidance of Mr. Alexander Holmes, who brings over 20 years of experience in higher education, we have developed a bespoke teaching approach that emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning. Our innovative curriculum engages children through community-based activities, encouraging them to explore, connect, and grow.
A Focus on Care
We prioritize the well-being of our students by engaging them in activities that promote empathy and kindness. From helping peers to participating in group projects, our children learn the value of collaboration and support. Each child receives personalized attention from our experienced caregivers, who understand their unique needs and developmental stages. We also ensure that all children enjoy nutritious meals and snacks, supporting their overall health and well-being.
Our menus are crafted by a nutritionist from London (Nabby’s Kitchen), ensuring that each meal is balanced and nourishing. Our catering partner, Fajara Gardens, provides fresh organic meals for the children every single day, reinforcing our commitment to healthy living.
Our dedicated staff fosters a nurturing environment where children feel secure and valued. By implementing consistent routines and positive reinforcement, we create a sense of stability and trust that allows children to explore and learn with confidence. Regular communication with parents keeps families informed about their child’s progress and well-being, reinforcing our commitment to partnership.
Building Community
At ABS, we believe in the power of community. Our students engage in group activities that build teamwork and cooperation, from collaborative art projects to group storytelling sessions. We celebrate cultural diversity through various multicultural events and activities, teaching children about different traditions and customs while fostering inclusivity.
We also encourage our students to participate in community service projects, such as local clean-ups or charity events, instilling a sense of social responsibility from a young age. Our staff fosters strong relationships with families, organizing community events, workshops, and parent-teacher meetings to strengthen our bonds and create a welcoming atmosphere where all families feel valued and included.
Fostering Creativity
Creativity is at the heart of our curriculum. We provide a wide range of engaging activities, including arts and crafts, music, dance, and imaginative play, allowing children to express themselves and explore new ideas. Our open-ended materials inspire curiosity and experimentation, encouraging children to think critically and solve problems.
Our educators design a diverse curriculum filled with opportunities for creative expression. We encourage children to take risks and try new things, providing the support and guidance they need to explore their interests. Throughout our centre, we proudly showcase children’s artwork and creative projects, celebrating their achievements and fostering pride in their work.
Discover Our Learning Spaces
We have thoughtfully designed our environment to support the diverse developmental needs of children aged 6 months to 5 years. Each space in our centre serves a unique purpose, fostering creativity, learning, and growth. Here’s a closer look at the rooms we offer:
Art and Music Room
Our dedicated Art and Music Room is a vibrant space where children can explore their creativity through various artistic mediums and musical instruments. Engaging in arts and crafts helps children express their emotions and develop fine motor skills. Music activities enhance language development, auditory skills, and social interaction, allowing children to work together in harmony.
Library
Our library is a cosy haven filled with a diverse collection of books tailored to various age groups. This space encourages a love for reading, enhances vocabulary, and supports language development. Early exposure to books has been shown to improve literacy skills and boost cognitive development, laying a strong foundation for future learning.
Sensory Room
The Sensory Room is specifically designed to stimulate the senses and promote cognitive development in a calming environment. This space includes various textures, lights, sounds, and activities that engage children’s senses. Research highlights the benefits of sensory play, especially for infants and toddlers, as it aids in developing motor skills, communication, and emotional regulation.
Outdoor Spaces
We have two outdoor spaces that enrich our children’s learning experiences.
Secret Garden: This enchanting space allows children to engage with nature while learning about the importance of growing our own food and the significance of agriculture, especially in The Gambia. Gardening activities teach children responsibility, patience, and an appreciation for the environment.
Play Area: Our dedicated play area encourages physical activity and social interaction, promoting gross motor development and teamwork. Outdoor play has been linked to improved physical health and emotional well-being in young children.
Supporting Early Development
At ABS, we cater to children as young as 6 months. While this may seem young, research shows that early childcare can provide significant benefits for both children and parents. High-quality day-care programs can foster cognitive and social development in infants. Furthermore, attending day-care helps infants develop crucial social skills and resilience, which are essential for future learning and adaptation.
For parents, early day-care can offer much-needed support, allowing them to pursue professional or personal goals while ensuring their child is in a nurturing environment. This can alleviate stress and promote a balanced family life.
The Importance of Professional Support
While many families in The Gambia rely on informal care from friends and relatives, the right professional support is crucial for optimal child development. A study by the World Bank highlights that access to quality early childhood education significantly enhances children’s cognitive and emotional outcomes. Children attending structured programs like ABS benefit from a comprehensive curriculum designed to support their holistic development—something that home care alone may not provide.
Statistics show that children enrolled in quality early childhood programs are 50% more likely to perform well academically in later years. Moreover, these children tend to demonstrate better social skills and emotional regulation, which are critical for their future success.
At ABS, we offer a tailored approach to childcare, complete with resources and trained staff who are equipped to support each child’s unique needs. Our nurturing environment ensures that every child receives the attention and care necessary for their growth and well-being.
By choosing ABS, you’re not just placing your child in day-care; you’re investing in their future. Our facilities include engaging learning spaces, nutritious meal plans designed by a nutritionist, and a curriculum that prioritizes literacy and creativity. We are committed to creating a balanced foundation that encourages lifelong learning.
Emphasizing Literacy and Creativity
While we wholeheartedly encourage arts and creativity, reading and writing are of paramount importance at ABS. We are committed to ensuring that every child in our care is able to read and write before embarking on the next stages of their educational journey. Our structured curriculum and trained staff create an environment where learning is fun, not a chore.
In The Gambia, literacy rates remain a significant concern. According to recent studies, the adult literacy rate is around 53%, with school readiness and reading proficiency among young children needing improvement. By fostering a love for reading from an early age, we can help change this narrative. Research indicates that children who engage in reading activities are more likely to excel academically, as early literacy lays a foundation for future learning.
We believe that education does not stop at the classroom door. Support from parents is essential to reinforce the value of reading at home. By encouraging daily reading practices, we can work together to cultivate future leaders—not just in The Gambia, but across Africa and beyond.
At ABS, we invite parents to join us in this journey. Together, we can create a generation of confident learners who are prepared to tackle the challenges of the world. Through collaboration and support, we can transform our children into the leaders of tomorrow.
Our Commitment to Care
To ensure the highest standard of care, our trained nannies specialize in infant development and are well-equipped to support the cognitive and emotional needs of babies. They are committed to creating a loving and stimulating environment that fosters growth and learning from the very start.
Join Us at ABS
At ABS Early Years Learning Centre, we believe that every child deserves a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Our thoughtfully designed spaces, dedicated staff, and commitment to nurturing development ensure that your child will thrive in a supportive and enriching environment.
As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite families to join our vibrant community. Together, we can create a nurturing environment where your child can explore, learn, and grow. For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact us today. Your child’s bright future starts at ABS!
Join Us Today!
At ABS, we are committed to creating an environment where your child can thrive. If you’re looking for a nurturing and innovative childcare experience, we invite you to become part of our ABS family. Contact us today to learn more about enrolment and how we can support your child’s journey!
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