INTERNATIONAL SPORTS KINDERGARTEN SMILE: LEARN, PLAY AND GROW

Located in the beautiful Boyana Sports Complex in Sofia, International Sports Kindergarten Smile (ISK-Smile) is where learning and play go hand in hand! With a dynamic mix of education and sports, ISK-Smile helps children grow, explore, and build confidence in a fun, supportive environment.

Mission

At the heart of ISK-Smile's philosophy is the belief that a love for learning is the key to success. The kindergarten is dedicated to providing a dynamic and diverse early learning experience, blending international education with a strong emphasis on sports. This approach not only nurtures cognitive development but also instills values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

PYP programme and benefits

ISK-Smile follows the prestigious Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB), catering to children aged 3 to 12. The PYP offers an inquiry-based, transdisciplinary curriculum that fosters conceptual understanding. One of the core goals of the PYP at ISK-Smile is to develop children into inquirers, encouraging them to ask questions, explore new ideas, and think critically about the world around them.

This student-centered approach nurtures curiosity, creativity, and independent thinking, making learning an engaging and meaningful experience. The PYP emphasizes real-world applications and global contexts, helping students develop intercultural understanding and respect. By engaging with the PYP framework, ISK-Smile ensures that its students are well-prepared for future academic endeavors and are equipped with the skills necessary for lifelong learning.

Circle Time and thematic learning

Every morning, ISK-Smile begins the day with Circle Time, a structured session focused on personal, social, and emotional development. This time encourages children to express their thoughts, share experiences, and engage in discussions that help them build friendships and confidence. The kindergarten ensures that each child feels included, fostering a warm and supportive atmosphere where everyone is a friend.

ISK-Smile follows a thematic learning approach, where children explore a variety of topics, from animals and nature to different cultures and professions. These themes are reinforced through engaging activities, including songs, story-based learning, card games, painting, and poster creation, allowing children to absorb new knowledge in fun and creative ways.

Focus on English

Language acquisition is a cornerstone of ISK-Smile's curriculum. To facilitate effective English language learning, the kindergarten employs the renowned Jolly Phonics program. This systematic, synthetic phonics approach teaches children the five key skills essential for reading and writing. Unlike traditional methods that focus solely on letter recognition, at ISK-Smile they introduce one new letter sound per week, helping children understand the connection between letters and their actual sounds. This distinction significantly improves pronunciation and reading fluency.

The multi-sensory method incorporates stories, songs, actions, and interactive activities, catering to various learning styles and needs. Recognizing that each child is unique, ISK-Smile provides individual attention, tailoring lessons to meet specific learning requirements and ensuring that every child progresses at their own pace. After every morning lesson, the children are separated into groups and given activities based on their level of knowledge, with a teacher present to provide clarification and support.

Focus on sports

Understanding the vital role of physical activity in early childhood, ISK-Smile places a strong emphasis on sports. The curriculum is designed to promote physical health, coordination, and teamwork through various daily sports activities. By engaging in regular physical exercise, children develop motor skills, learn the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and build self-confidence. The integration of sports into daily routines ensures that children find joy in movement and understand the value of perseverance and collaboration. The brand-new and modern facilities provide opportunities for sports throughout the year, whether outdoors or inside the spacious sports balloon. The children have sports twice a day and in winter participate in a week long ski school twice – in January and March.

Year-round admissions

Understanding that families have diverse needs, ISK-Smile offers year-round admissions, providing flexibility for parents seeking quality education for their children at different times of the year. The application process is straightforward, ensuring a smooth transition for new students into the kindergarten's vibrant community. With a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ISK-Smile welcomes children from various backgrounds, enriching the learning environment with diverse perspectives and experiences.

International Sports Kindergarten Smile stands out as a beacon of holistic early childhood education in Sofia. By harmoniously blending academics, sports, and personal development within an internationally recognized framework, ISK-Smile prepares children to navigate the complexities of the world with confidence, empathy, and a lifelong love for learning.

+359 895 775 670
info@isk-smile.com
www.isk-smile.com