In the heart of Bali, where the aroma of frangipani mingles with the salt-kissed air of the Indian Ocean, lies Lollypop Preschool, a place as magical and whimsical as its name suggests. Our journey here from Colombia was fraught with anticipation and trepidation, but the gates of this school opened to a world that felt like it was spun from the very threads of our most cherished dreams.
Table of Contents
Discovering a Hidden Gem
From the moment we crossed the threshold of Lollypop Preschool, it was as if we had stepped into a dreamscape where time flowed as languidly as the rivers of my homeland. The school’s vibrant colors and playful atmosphere are reminiscent of the carnivals of Cartagena, where laughter and joy are the currencies of the realm. Here, children aged 1.5 to 6 years embark on a journey of discovery, guided by a curriculum that blends the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) with Indonesia’s National Curriculum. This marriage of global perspectives and local traditions creates an educational tapestry as rich and intricate as the weavings of the Kogi people.
A Curriculum that Inspires
Lollypop Preschool’s commitment to holistic education is evident in every corner of its campus. The IEYC, developed by Fieldwork Education in the UK, emphasizes learning through enquiry and play, fostering cognitive, personal, social, and emotional development. Thematic units, such as the mysteries of the ocean or the wonders of space, captivate the children’s imaginations, much like the stories of the old curandera captured my own as a child.
My daughter, Sofia, finds herself enthralled by the themes explored each week. One moment she is a marine biologist, peering into a mini-aquarium with the curiosity of a young observer discovering the world, and the next, she is an astronaut, constructing her own “rocket ships” and “astronaut helmets” with the ingenuity and passion of an explorer charting unknown realms. The blend of structured learning and imaginative play at Lollypop has been a balm for her soul, nurturing her creativity and bolstering her confidence.
The Setting: A Magical Realm
The physical environment of Lollypop Preschool is a testament to the magic of childhood. The classrooms are awash with natural light and filled with educational toys, evoking the charm of a place where even the most mundane objects possess a touch of the extraordinary. Outside, the playgrounds, football field, and swimming pool provide a sanctuary for physical activity, essential for the growth and development of young minds and bodies.
However, the transition to this new world was not without its challenges. The language barrier was a specter that loomed over us, creating moments of doubt and isolation. But the teachers, many of whom are bilingual, wove an inclusive tapestry that embraced Sofia and Mateo, ensuring they never felt like outsiders in this land of enchantment.
A Community of Kindred Spirits
One of the most heartwarming aspects of our experience at Lollypop has been the sense of community. The school fosters parental involvement through regular events and workshops, much like the communal gatherings of the villages back in Colombia. The International Day celebration was a particularly poignant event, where parents shared their cultures through food, music, and traditional attire, creating a mosaic of global understanding and friendship.
Reflections and Realities
Our journey with Lollypop Preschool has not been without its complexities. The fees are steep, reflecting the premium placed on quality education and facilities. This reality might not be accessible to all, and it is a reminder of the socioeconomic disparities that exist even in paradise.
Additionally, the dual curriculum, while enriching, sometimes resulted in a demanding schedule. Balancing the thematic units of the IEYC with the requirements of the national curriculum was a tightrope walk. Yet, the dedication and skill of the teachers ensured that learning remained a joyous and fulfilling experience for the children.
An Ode to Lollypop
As I reflect on our time at Lollypop Preschool, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude. This institution has provided my children with a nurturing and stimulating environment, akin to an enchanted world, where every day is a new adventure and every corner holds a secret waiting to be discovered.
For parents seeking an early childhood education that blends academic excellence with a loving, inclusive environment, Lollypop Preschool is a beacon of hope and possibility. It is a place where the spirit of childhood is celebrated, and every child is encouraged to blossom in their own unique way. As Sofia and Mateo continue their journey, I am confident that the foundation laid at Lollypop will be a cornerstone of their lifelong love of learning.
