At Allegro, our approach to early childhood education is guided by the Nova Scotia Early Learning Curriculum Framework (ELCF): Capable, Confident, and Curious. This provincial framework celebrates the unique potential of every child and supports educators in creating rich, inclusive environments where learning and relationships flourish.
The ELCF views children as capable, competent, and full of potential. It emphasizes play as the foundation for learning and encourages educators to design experiences that are meaningful, responsive, and grounded in children’s natural curiosity.
The framework is built around four key learning outcomes that guide our practice every day:
- Well-Being
Children experience physical and emotional health, safety, and comfort. They develop a sense of self-worth, confidence, and the ability to care for themselves and others. - Discovery and Invention
Children engage in rich, imaginative play that supports exploration, problem-solving, creativity, and flexible thinking. Play is valued as the foundation for lifelong learning. - Language and Communication
Children express themselves in many ways through language, movement, art, storytelling, and inquiry. They learn to share ideas, listen to others, and make meaning of the world around them. - Personal and Social Responsibility
Children develop empathy, respect, and a sense of belonging within their communities. They learn about fairness, inclusion, and their ability to make a positive difference.
Our educators use the framework to:
- Foster a strong sense of belonging, well-being, expression, and engagement
- Observe and document children’s learning to make thinking visible and deepen understanding
- Create environments that invite exploration, creativity, and collaboration
- Partner with families to build continuity between home and the centre
This curriculum is not a set of lessons or checklists, it’s a living, reflective framework that supports relationships, inquiry, and growth. Through play, children build the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive both today and in the future.
To learn more about the Nova Scotia Early Learning Curriculum Framework, visit the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development’s website: https://www.ednet.ns.ca/docs/nsel_curriculum_framework_en.pdf
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