The Knightsbridge Nursery School formally launches Skillplay afternoons in Dubai each afternoon Sunday through Thursday. Founder and Ivy league graduate, Miss Zahra explains: “Skillplay is a first in the region; an activity based afternoon learning experience for ages 3-8 years old.” There is an innovative schedule which includes rainbow water play, math magicians, trampolining, clay modelling, phonics and yoga which help the youngest find things they enjoy and later develop hobbies into talents that they can compete and excel in.” The 24,000 square foot space is custom designed to teach with learning zones incorporating reflexology, fitness, languages and the celebrated miss manners ensuring Dubai’s youngest are comfortable in a variety of settings and exposed to skills and concepts from around the world. While Dubai schools do not yet interview children as young as two for its coveted educational spots, in SW7 London and New York’s swanky Upper East Side this is the norm and children are expected to have acquired certain skills and know how by a very young age. Is this too much pressure – not by the Knightsbridge design where the curriculum is weaved into activities – Learning fractions at three? Sure, in cupcakes cooking class sharing an apple is made into such a lesson. The key is innovative learning materials and staff with qualifications, experience and enthusiasm who engage children with everyday activities all designed to keep children’s brains and bodies active. This nursery and its Skillplay program aims to be more than proven methods and mantras – but a true ivy league for the junior set of Dubai. Registration is now open for the April-June 2007 term at their Umm Suqeim 3 site located just one minute away from The Jumeirah Beach Hotel. For more information, visit their website www.theivychild.com or contact The Knightsbridge at 04.348.1666 to arrange a site tour. Remember to visit at their Skillplay Open House for Parents & Children on April 30, 2-6pm for a fun and informative afternoon.
