How to choose the right preschool for your child in Dubai

Time Out Abu Dhabi

a day ago

Did you know that the best time of year to enroll your child in nursery is September?
At least that's what the Early Years learning experts at Kids First Group, Dubai's leading education group say.
In fact, if your child starts from the very first term rather than later on, they can fully experience the settling-in-period with other children, establish routines, and build friendships — especially if they're new to a nursery environment.
What's more, you can also avoid the long waiting lists as nurseries fill up by term two.
So to help you decide on which nursery is the best for you and your child, here are some of Dubai's most talked about options from Kids First Group. What's more, these nurseries come highly praised from parents in your position, so rest assured whichever you choose, makes an educated option
Odyssey Nursery
Why parents love it: It's multilingual, creative, and nature-inspired
Parents rave about the languages their children are exposed to at Odyssey, with native French and Arabic-speaking teachers and assistants on hand.
The strong sense of community and parent involvement is also a highlight. Following the American early learning curriculum, the nursery is recognised as a progressive and accountable system for early years' development.
At Odyssey, classrooms are seen as an extension of your child's world, bringing the outside indoors and using natural resources for sensory learning. Part of the Reggio Emilia group of nurseries, its concept of 'The 100 Languages of Children' prides itself on its diverse teaching style with nature, creativity and so much more.
Locations in Dubai: Umm Suqeim 2, Jumeirah Beach Residences, Burj Al Arab, Living Legends, Meydan, Sheikh Zayed Road (CityWalk)
Also available in Abu Dhabi: Saadiyat, West Yas, Al Muneera, Al Zeina, Mushrif, Khalifa City
www.instagram.com/officialodysseynursery/, www.odysseynursery.com/reggio-nursery-lp (800-ODYCHILD).
Redwood Montessori Nursery
Why parents love it: Premium Montessori learning and a great reputation
Redwood Montessori Nursery caters to diverse cultures in the classroom, incorporating Arabic, Russian, French and Spanish in its teachings. Walking into any of their branches from Al Furjan and Jumeirah Parks to Garhoud, you can expect only the finest of facilities, with classrooms built with your child's needs in mind, ready for them to explore. What's more, parents can expect tools specifically designed for Montessori schools and cannot be found elsewhere.
Locations in Dubai: Al Furjan, Jumeirah Parks, Garhoud, The Palm Jumeirah
Locations in Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan, Al Marina, Shams Boutik, Yas Island, Al Mushrif, Khalifa City, Reem Island, Al Bateen
www.instagram.com/redwoodmontessoriofficial/, montessori-nursery-lp.theredwoodnursery.com (800 REDWOOD).
Willow Children's Nursery
Why parents love it: High-quality passionate teachers and the UK's EYFS curriculum
The first thing parents mention about Willow Nurseries is the clear passion its teachers show.
Willow combines the best of two systems: the UK EYFS curriculum and the child-led learning approach of Reggio Emilia. Whether you choose its nursery located in the heart of the city's business district like ONE Central or opt for its Umm Suqeim location, Willow Nursery stays true to its values and identity with lots of natural environments for free play and exploration.
Locations in Dubai: Umm Suqeim, ONE Central, Dubai Marina
www.instagram.com/willownurseryofficial/, dubai-nursery-lp.willowchildrensnursery.com (800 WILLOW).
Redwood Center of Excellence
Why parents love it: Innovative curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and the only International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme preschool in the UAE
The newest and largest preschool of the bunch, Redwood Center of Excellence (Redwood COE) has gained significant popularity in a short time, including setting a UAE record with its offering of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme from age three years and older.
Described as a 'mini university', you can find a library, gym, sensory room, botanical garden, Reggio atelier and splash pad at Redwood, not to mention its own outdoor play area.
It combines Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) under the Early Years Foundation Stages Framework (EYFS), blending the curricula for optimal results. This way Redwood believes this helps children develop and grow a multitude of skills, including communication, language, critical thinking, emotional literacy, physical well-being, life skills, creativity and so much more.
Locations in Dubai: Al Barsha 2 (Jubail Island in Abu Dhabi opening next year)
www.instagram.com/redwood_center_of_excellence/, www.lp.redwoodcoe.com (800 CHILD).