KAUST DAYCARE / PRESCHOOL / AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BUILDING BLOCKS
Welcome to
Building Blocks
Building Minds
of the Future
Registration
is OPEN
THE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE
Dr. Suhail Sawan
Our mission is to provide high quality education, ensuring a secure and respectful environment that cultivates positive outlooks and establishes the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to learning.
About Us
Our Mission:
To provide a safe, joyful, and educational environment that will help children think about their surroundings, understand cause and effect relations, and how events affect them and their society.
Our Goal:
It is our aim for every child to reach his/her full potential and to enable them to move forward as life-long learners. Our team aspires to place the first block in building a young generation of inquisitive minds, high self-esteem, strong critical thinking children.
Our Services
DAYCARE
Our Daycare serves children from 2 months to 3 years old. Our goal is to provide a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for your child. We aspire to make your time spent with us a joyful and enriching experience, contributing positively to your child's crucial formative years.
PRESCHOOL
formerly known as KG1
Our preschool services will provide a comprehensive early education experience for 3 year olds, emphasizing holistic development in a secure and nurturing environment. With qualified educators, a well-rounded curriculum, and play-based learning, we foster essential skills for a child's future success.
AFTERSCHOOL
Our afterschool program provides a well-rounded extension of the school day for children aged 3 to 6 years old, combining creative activities and a focus on social development. With qualified supervision, academic enrichment, creative arts, and fostering a love for learning, we create a safe and enriching environment for young learners.
Welcome to our Preschool
"Dream, Discover, Flourish: Growing Together in Wonder!
Hours of Operation
Preschool classes start in August 2024.
Classes from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM,
Sundays through Thursday.
What will make our Preschool different from other programs?
At BBIS 'Preschool,' where children's dreams come to life! Our preschool will be a place where young minds will thrive, creating stories of imagination and discovering a world full of possibilities.
Step into the Heart of Fun!
We will take pride in creating a joyful, secure, and welcoming atmosphere where children aged three years old will be inspired to explore their capabilities!
Schedule a Tour
The commitment
We will go beyond providing a safe and nurturing space; we will actively celebrate and support each child's distinctive learning journey, tailoring our approach to encourage both intellectual and physical development at their own pace.
Activities
In our dedicated learning environment, safety and nurturing will form the cornerstone, accompanied by a deep commitment to understanding and respecting the distinct learning styles and individual paces of each child's intellectual and physical growth.
Programs
Our staff will tailor programs to each child's needs, promoting development through age-appropriate education. Our primary learning curriculum will be Macmillan's Doodle Town Second Edition, complemented by The Creative Curriculum approach, which will seamlessly integrate with the TKS learning philosophy and continuum tool.
Field Trip
Preschoolers will embark on exciting field trips as part of a holistic learning approach. These adventures will not only foster age-appropriate development but also create a joyful and memorable educational experience for our young explorers.
Our educational approach integrates two primary curricula aimed at enhancing engagement and effectiveness in learning.
Our Preschool program will use The Creative Curriculum. This curriculum, grounded in extensive research on childhood development, prioritizes experiential learning and play-based exploration. It aims to instill confidence in mathematical and scientific concepts while nurturing language and literacy skills. The inquiry-based approach of The Creative Curriculum will help to connect Preschool to the TKS learning philosophy, facilitating a smooth transition for our students.
In addition, a thematic framework is provided through Macmillan’s Doodle Town (2nd Edition) which will be used too. It offers a guided approach to early literacy and focuses on social and emotional learning. Children will be prepared for a life-long learning journey. The emphasis of Macmillan Doodle Town is on math and English. The resources and activities are available to be used by the teachers. Macmillan is well known for making literacy and language learning playful, enjoyable, and memorable.
By integrating these two curricula, we create a rich and comprehensive learning environment that nurtures curiosity, fosters creativity, and prepares students for academic success.
FAQs for Preschool Curriculum
- What type of media will be used for teaching?
Q
A
Answer
We will incorporate numerous hands-on experiences and activities to enhance the learning process. Children will not be permitted to use iPads or other electronic devices in the classroom unless necessary for a specific project. Parental permission will be sought in such cases.
Q
2. Will workbooks be used in the classroom?
A
Answer
Yes, workbooks will be utilized in our daily learning process, but we will also incorporate a variety of other materials to enrich the learning experience.
Q
3. What will a daily schedule look like?
A
Answer
- Preparation, arrival, and choice activities – 30 minutes (7:45 – 8:15 AM)
- Outdoor time or PE – 30 minutes (8:15 – 8:45 AM)
- Group meeting – 25 minutes (8:45 – 9:10 AM)
- Choice time in interest areas of the classroom – 50 minutes (9:10 – 10:00 AM)
- Cleanup, handwashing, and snack – 20 minutes (10:00 – 10:20 AM)
- Outdoor time – 30 minutes (10:20 – 10:40 AM)
- Small group activity – 30 minutes (10:40 – 11:10 AM)
- Storytime – 20 minutes (11:10 – 11:30 AM)
- Music & movement experience, group meeting, and departure – 30 minutes(11:30 – 12 noon)
Q
4. How will you develop my child’s fine motor and gross motor skills?
A
Answer
- A range of sensory activities will be offered regularly such as sand tracing, threading, playdough etc.
- Children will also have the opportunity to explore outdoor activities including the mud kitchen, floor games, riding balancing bikes, and walking barefoot on the sensory path.
- Structured physical education (P.E.) sessions will be conducted weekly in the gym, providing children with the opportunity to develop their gross motor skills and balance.
Q
5. What kind of music and movement experience will be offered to my child?
A
Answer
In the classroom setting, music will be utilized to aid language development and early literacy. A variety of instruments will be incorporated to enhance musical skills and provide an early opportunity for collaborative music-making. Different forms of movement, such as yoga and free dancing, will be explored. Towards the end of the year, children will have the opportunity to showcase their skills in a class performance for parents before transitioning to Pre-kindergarten at TKS.
Q
6. Will there be any dramatic play offered?
A
Answer
Our dramatic playroom will offer a variety of different settings throughout the year, such as a restaurant, clinic, farm, and supermarket. Children will be provided with different dress-up choices to encourage exploration of their talents and interests.
Q
7. How often will my child have arts and crafts activities?
A
Answer
In the Preschool, arts and crafts will be driven by the children's choices, as materials will be readily available. These materials will include a variety of options such as recycled clean containers, boxes, wool, caps, etc.
Q
8. Will my child go on field trips?
A
Answer
Yes, regular field trips will take place within KAUST. We will visit places such as the beach, Tamimi Supermarket, Gardening Nursery, Harbor Library, Playland, Fire Station, King Abdullah Monument, and Recycling Facility (Averda). At the end of the year, we will schedule a visit to TKS Kindergarten, allowing the children to familiarize themselves with the next venture.
Q
9. What other spaces do you offer in your facility?
A
Answer
- Indoor spaces include: Sensory room, dramatic playroom, library, art center, recycling center, creativity room, gym, and activity room.
- Outdoor spaces consist of: Bike and sand atriums, two playgrounds, mud kitchen, and a barefoot walk sensory path.
Q
10. Does my child need to bring a snack?
A
Answer
Yes, a healthy snack needs to be brought from home every day, along with a reusable drinking bottle containing either water or juice. Each class will be equipped with a water dispenser and refrigerator to keep food chilled. Additionally, if needed, food can be reheated using the microwave.
Preschool Gym
Provide safe play areas with age-appropriate equipment and structured sessions for children's physical and social development.
Storytelling
Involves reading picture books, acting out stories, and puppet shows, fostering language development, and a love for narratives in young children.
Dramatic Play
Featuring dress-up and pretend activities, cultivates social skills and creativity through imaginative role-playing.
Art and Craft
Hands-on exploration of colors, textures, and materials.
Music and Movement
Rhythmic awareness, coordination, and creative expression contribute to overall cognitive and physical development in children.
Sensory Play
Exploring different textures, playing with sand and water, and using sensory bins to stimulate cognitive development.
Outdoor Play
Activities like sliding, nature walks, and ball games, promote both gross motor skills and a connection to the natural environment.
Science Exploration
Exploration includes simple experiments, nature observations, and hands-on activities.
Cooking and Food Activities
Hands-on activities like sandwiches and tasting sessions, encourage hands-on learning and early exploration of food.
Preschool facilities will offer a secure and enriching environment with age-appropriate amenities, creating an optimal setting for early childhood education and growth.
HARBOR CENTER (ECC2)
Our Class
photos
Preschool
At our preschool, experienced and qualified educators will foster a nurturing learning environment, prioritizing personalized attention, enthusiasm, and a deep commitment to unlocking the full potential of each child.
Our teaching team at Building Blocks Preschool:
Teacher
Teacher Assistant
Collaboratively, our Teacher and Teacher Assistant will create a devoted team, committed to cultivating an optimal learning environment for your child at Building Blocks.
A one-time, non-refundable registration fee is to be paid upon the acceptance of the child in the
school. No registration fee will be charged if the child is enrolled in the Daycare Seniors class at the time of registration.
School fees are set as an annual fee. For convenience of payment, parents have the option to pay the annual fee in two payments.
SCHOOL PROGRAM
| REGISTRATION FEE
| ANNUAL TUITION
| Semester 1
| Semester 2
|
1st Instalment
| 2nd Instalment
| |||
Preschool
| SAR 1,500.00
| SAR 25,000.00
| SAR 12,500.00
| SAR 12,500.00
|
15% VAT will be added to Non-Saudi Students
If a child is enrolled during the academic year, the fee will be prorated based on the semester period (6 months).
FAQs for Preschool Tuition Fees
- Will my child receive a discount?
Q
A
Answer
An annual discount will be offered for parents who make early payments within a specified period.
Q
A
2. Do you offer a sibling discount?
Answer
Yes, we offer discounts for siblings.
- If both siblings are enrolled in the preschool, one of them will be eligible for a 5% discount on the Preschool tuition fee.
- If the enrolled preschool child is not enrolled in the afterschool program, a 10% discount will apply to the enrolled highest sibling fees either in the Daycare or Afterschool program.
3. If I want to enroll my preschool child to the afterschool program, do I get a discount?
Q
A
Answer
Yes, a 10% discount will be applied to the afterschool fees.
Q
A
4. If I only want to enroll my preschool child in the afterschool program during the school holidays, will I get a discount?
Answer
During the school holidays, we offer full-day (7:30 am to 5:30 pm) or half-day (morning from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm OR afternoon from 12:30 pm to 5:30 pm) enrollment. A 30% discount will be applied to the afterschool fees.
5. If my child is both enrolled in the preschool and afterschool program, will I get a discount during the school holidays?
Q
A
Answer
Yes, an additional 50% discount is offered on the afterschool fees during the school holidays.
Q
A
6. If I leave KAUST during the semester, will I be able to get a refund?
Answer
No, the tuition fee is non-refundable.
Q
A
7. If I am late to pick up my child from preschool, will there be a late pick up fee?
Answer
If you are late to collect your child after 12:10 pm, a reminder email will be sent. A second late pick-up during the same month will be charged SAR 50. Third or subsequent late pick-ups of the month, you will be charged SAR 100 per day.
General FAQs
Q
- What age will the preschool accept children?
A
Answer
Children must be three years old by August 31, 2024 to be eligible for enrollment.
Q
2. Will my child nap at school?
A
Answer
No, there will be no nap time during preschool hours.
Q
3. Does my child need to be toilet trained?
A
Answer
Yes, your child will need to be toilet trained before starting in Preschool.
Q
4. Is school transportation offered?
A
Answer
Yes, school transportation will be provided through KAUST Saptco. Children will be attended by preschool staff members in the bus.
Q
5. How will I know what my child does at school?
A
Answer
A weekly report of your child's activities will be sent digitally from the school.
Q
6. Do I need to provide a morning snack for my child?
A
Answer
Yes, you will need to bring a morning snack for your child.
Q
7. What are the registration fees for?
A
Answer
Registration fees will only be charged for newly enrolled children. Currently enrolled children in the Senior age group will not incur registration fees. This fee is paid to reserve your child’s spot.
Q
8. Is the vaccination program required for my child?
A
Answer
Children must be up to date with their immunizations before starting preschool. Our immunization requirements are based on the Saudi vaccination program.
Q
9. If I have a child in Daycare, can I drop off my preschool child earlier?
A
Answer
Yes, kindly check with the management for further information. In these cases, we will accept from 7:45 AM.
KAUST Preschool
Harbor Center (ECC2)
Thuwal, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Saudi Arabia
(012) 808-6223
bbis.preschool@kaust.edu.sa
bbis.registration@kaust.edu.sa
Welcome to our Daycare
Discover a world of care and learning for your little ones.
Hours of Operation
Open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM,
Sundays through Thursday.
Our Location
Island Daycare (ECC1) - Infants to Juniors
Harbor Center (ECC2) - Seniors
DAYCARE
Schedule a Tour
Our daycare services offer a safe and nurturing environment for children, featuring age-appropriate activities, qualified staff, and a balance between learning and play. Discover our special programs to witness our commitment to prioritizing safety, education, and the overall well-being of every child under our care.
Discover
the Infant Program
Our Infant program offers a range of activities, including being cradled during feedings, gently rocked to sleep, verbal engagement throughout the day, exposure to music, sensory experiences, and outdoor playtime. In addition to these individual caregiving moments, teachers will strategically plan and organize the environment to facilitate experiences that enhance various aspects of development:
- Motor development: Activities such as reaching, grasping, crawling in and out, throwing, and pulling.
- Cognitive development: Opportunities for developing object permanence, cause-and-effect understanding, language acquisition, active listening, responding to sounds and voices, and problem-solving.
- Social development: Encouraging play among peers, fostering positive interactions, and helping infants express their emotions towards others.
Age Group:
- Younger Infants - 2 months to 12 months
- Older Infants - 12 months to 1 year 7 months
Learning
The Toddlers Program
Our Toddler program emphasizes the cultivation of autonomy. This is achieved by recognizing each child as an individual and providing ample opportunities for independence. When children experience a sense of autonomy, power, and competence, they are better equipped to venture into the world as active learners and problem solvers. It is crucial for young children to have a secure environment that offers opportunities for exploration and enjoyment, allowing them to see, touch, feel, and move freely.
Our curriculum is structured around monthly themes, serving as the foundation for stories, flashcards, songs, and worksheets. Within the classroom, various projects and activities are thoughtfully arranged, giving children the freedom to choose from a diverse range of materials. Every child is encouraged to explore new activities and experiment in a safe, risk-free environment.
Our program goes beyond the classroom, incorporating daily visits to activity rooms and supervised nature walks outdoors, weather permitting.
Age Group:
Toddlers - 1 year 7 months to 2 years 3 months
Explore Further
for Juniors and Seniors
For our Junior and Senior classes, we implement the Houghton Mifflin Pre-K program. This curriculum is designed to be hands-on and minds-on, aligning with developmental appropriateness and grounded in scientific research. It lays the foundation for essential skills, including oral language, vocabulary development, phonological awareness, letter knowledge, and overall concept development.
The Houghton Mifflin Pre-K program offers children numerous opportunities to enhance their language and literacy skills throughout the day. This is achieved through engaging activities such as big book read-aloud sessions, chants, rhymes, music and movement exercises, dramatic play, and the use of Alpha Friends songs.
Age Group:
- Juniors - 2 years 3 months to 2 years 8 months
- Seniors - 2 years 8 months to 3 years above
Virtual Tour
Our Facilities
Our facilities are thoughtfully designed to provide a secure and nurturing environment for your child.
Meet some of our staff
Teacher
Teacher
Assistant
Caregiver
Caregiver
The staffing ratio varies based on your child's age group. Ensuring the best care suited to their needs. Learn more for a clear understanding.
FAQs
Q
What are the enrollment types at daycare?
A
Answer
We offer the following types of enrollment: half-day morning (7:30 am to 12:30 pm), half-day afternoon (12:30 pm to 5:30 pm), and full day (7:30 am to 5:30 pm).
Q
To which building should I bring my child?
A
Answer
Our locations are specific to the child's age. Please find the below information:
- Island Daycare (ECC1): 2 months to 2 years and 8 months
- Harbor Center (ECC2): 2 years and 8 months above to Afterschool
Q
Is there an option to enroll my child for only a few weeks?
A
Answer
The Daycare offers a monthly enrollment.
Q
Is there a waiting list for the classes?
A
Answer
It depends on the number of enrolled children. Kindly check with us two weeks before your child’s intended start date, and we will guide you accordingly.
Learn More,
Find Out More Today!
Address
Island Daycare ECC1, Mangrove Street
Infants to Juniors age group
(012) 808 6223
Harbor Center ECC2, beside Tamimi Market
Seniors age group
daycare@kaust.edu.sa bbis.registration@kaust.edu.sa
Every child deserves to have fun and experience joy in their life.
Welcome to our Afterschool
Unlock a world of opportunities for
your child at our Afterschool
Hours of Operation
Open from noon to 5:30 PM,
Sundays through Thursday.
AFTERSCHOOL
Our afterschool program offers a diverse range of activities and educational support for children. With a focus on fostering creativity, social development, and academic enrichment, we provide a safe and engaging environment. Your child can join us for a well-rounded experience that combines learning and fun, empowering children to thrive beyond the regular school day.
Preschool Afterschool (formerly known as KG1) Program | KG2 Afterschool Program |
For our afterschool preschool and Pre-K program, we adhere to the Pockets curriculum, a newly introduced three-level English course designed for preschool students. This curriculum is designed to enhance English language proficiency and psycho-motor/conceptual skills through engaging, hands-on activities. It aims to equip children for ongoing success in learning English. Pockets' spiraled themes evolve with the developing child, incorporating the child's expanding knowledge of the world. | |
Schedule a Tour
Children must be enrolled at Preschool (KG1) or TKS for them to attend the afterschool program
KG3 Afterschool Program |
The Kindergarten curriculum is characterized as encompassing all planned interactions, experiences, transitions, and routines within an environment specifically crafted to nurture children's holistic development. It follows thematic approaches, engaging children in purposeful play for effective learning.
Through hands-on activities like manipulating real objects, exploring, reflecting, interactive decision-making, and communication with peers and teachers, children will develop knowledge. Every facet of a child's development is acknowledged and valued to maximize their potential. The curriculum enhances children's understanding by providing opportunities for them to communicate their thoughts and ideas with others within the thematic framework.
Our Facilities
Our facilities offer a secure, engaging environment with enriching activities and flexible scheduling. Fueling curiosity and fostering growth for a well-rounded, fun-filled journey!
Experienced educators and caring professionals, our staff is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for your child. Our team ensures a supportive atmosphere with engaging activities.
TEACHER
CAREGIVER
TEACHER
ASSISTANT
FAQs
Q
Does Building Blocks offer transportation from TKS to ECC2?
Creativity
A
Answer
Yes, Building Blocks staff will ensure children are safely transported from TKS to their respective classrooms at Building Blocks - ECC2 (Harbor Center) using Saptco Buses.
Musics and Arts
Q
Is it necessary for my child to bring food?
We welcome more friends so feel absolutely free to reach out to us through our social media accounts below.
A
Answer
Yes, you have the option to bring your child's food container to Harbor Center before their class begins. Refrigerators are available in the office area for storing your child’s meal.
We kindly request that you label your child’s food container with their name.
Q
Can I choose my child’s class?
A
Answer
Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis. After checking the class capacity, we will notify parents regarding available spots.
Get in Touch
Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
(012) 808-6223
daycare@kaust.edu.sa
bbis.registration@kaust.edu.sa
Find Us
Island Daycare - ECC1
Harbor Center - ECC2
