CocoRio’s Code: Creative Childcare Framework
Childcare is much more than just supervision - it is the ground where our future thinkers, leaders and creators grow. At CocoRio, not only does our childcare instil creativity and curiosity, but our childcare is built on a thoughtful framework that is backed by science and research.
Our approach draws from the most respected educational philosophies. A combination of inspiring principles from Montessori to the Finnish education system, whilst also using child psychology and following the standards of the Early Years Foundation Stage(EYFS).
Montessori Education - Independence and Creativity
Montessori is a type of education that focuses on self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play. It encourages children to explore their creativity in a safe and appropriate environment. Our highly able creatives offer age-appropriate activities to guide the process.
Example:
For younger children, sensory and concentration activities work well, such as jigsaw puzzles and exploration with sensory materials within the home, such as objects in the kitchen cupboard.
For older children, this education can take the form of research projects where they can think independently and use their creativity to explore their interests, such as researching the different wildlife in their garden.
Lessons from Finland - Joyful and Holistic Learning
This system champions open-ended learning, outdoor experiences and creative exploration. This form of learning inspires our creatives to create activities and education focused on holistic and nature-focused principles. This approach is not only for the classroom; it promotes values that can be applied everywhere, all the time.
Example:
For younger children, the system focuses on learning through play, such as engaging the child in a game like acting out a story to improve their communication skills while leaning into creativity.
For older children, the system showcases a focus on well-being as well as study, such as incorporating more extra-curricular activities, especially those that allow the child to engage with the outdoors more, which is something our creatives reflect in their childcare.
Child Psychology - The Psychology of Play
Grounded in compassion-focused therapy and mindfulness, it teaches children how to develop a compassionate relationship with themselves. We prioritise emotional well-being, emphasising building resilience, self-esteem and self-worth through our childcare. This sets up the children for a future where they can champion themselves and navigate life’s difficulties more easily.
Example:
For younger children, to help build their compassion, activities such as recognising emotions from different faces and discussing these emotions help to build their empathy.
For older children, mindful activities such as meditation and breathing exercises can be used to help them manage their reactions to events in the future in a positive way.
Everyday Creativity - Promoting Learning and Expression
Creative activities stretch beyond the traditional artistic forms, they. can be moulded into a diverse range of activities that can be engaged with by millions of different people. We integrate these immersive experiences into our childcare at CocoRio to foster creativity in everyday moments.
Example:
For younger children, activities can include storytelling about their day to promote creativity in their communication and imagination.
For older children, activities such as cooking and gardening can be turned into tasks full of creativity, such as making the most colourful meal for lunchtime with our creative nannies.
EYFS - Standards for Growth
This system sets standards for the learning, development and care for your child from birth to five years old. It supports holistic development through creating principles surrounding engaging child-centred learning. At CocoRio, we follow these standards as each of our creatives is briefed on these principles, which they incorporate into their childcare.
10 Qualities of Creative Childcare
Child-centred: Tailored to each child’s emotional and developmental needs.
Multidisciplinary: Integrating music, movement, art and language.
Sensory and Embodied: Engaging all five senses for an immersive experience.
Adaptable: Creative with appropriate constraints.
Nature-inspired: Rooted in seasonal changes and outdoor exploration.
Sustainable: Using up-cycled and everyday materials.
Consistent: Providing structure and repetition for maximum benefit.
Social and connecting: Encouraging interaction and inclusion.
Mindful: Keeping children present and away from mindless screen time.
Fun and Freeing: Sparking joy, curiosity and creativity through play.
To hear more from our co-founder Corinna, watch this video!