How a holistic approach in a play-based learning environment can shape your child’s future and equip them with lifelong skills.
Imagine a world where every child feels valued, where they understand their worth and potential, not just in the eyes of their family but in the larger world. Kelly Eyre, quality and pedagogy lead at Dibber International Preschools, says this is at the core of everything they do. “We’re creating children for the heart of the world, where care and education go hand in hand, shaping not just bright minds but nurturing spirits.”
Eyres says the Dibber educational environment is centred around three essential elements: holistic, interactive and play-based learning. “These aren’t just buzzwords; they form the foundation of how we help children grow into well-rounded, confident individuals,” she explains.
what is holistic learning?
Holistic learning looks beyond the traditional classroom model. It involves more than just teaching numbers and letters; it’s about nurturing the whole child – emotionally, socially and cognitively. Every experience they have, every interaction, every moment of care helps them understand that their worth is not measured solely by academic success, but by their ability to connect, empathise and explore the world around them.
Eyres explains further: “A holistic approach ensures that no part of your child’s development is overlooked. In today’s fast-paced world, children need more than just knowledge to thrive – they need emotional intelligence, creativity and problem-solving skills. Holistic learning focuses on all these areas, providing children with a well-rounded foundation. This allows them to navigate life with resilience and flexibility, giving them a sense of self-awareness and confidence that will serve them far beyond their early years. Imagine a child who not only knows how to read but also knows how to express their emotions, solve problems, and work with others—this is what holistic learning offers.
“The interactive nature of our approach means children are not passive learners. They are active participants in their learning journey, exploring, asking questions, and making discoveries. In our classrooms, interaction is key – whether with their teachers, peers or their surroundings,” she says.
“This engagement helps children develop critical thinking and communication skills that will serve them for life. When children are encouraged to engage with the world around them, they begin to understand their place in it. They learn how to collaborate, express ideas, and develop a mastery of skills that will set them on a path to lifelong learning.”
achieving mastery
Another benefit of a holistic approach is achieving mastery. Mastery is about more than just accomplishing a task – it’s about deep understanding, persistence, and a sense of ownership over one’s own learning.
“At Dibber, children are given the time and space to achieve mastery at their own pace. Whether they’re building, creating or problem-solving, they are developing a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom,” says Eyres. “By fostering this sense of mastery, we’re nurturing a lifelong learning competency, helping children understand that learning isn’t something that stops when school ends, it can continue for the rest of their lives.”
play-based learning
In a play-based approach, children are encouraged to learn through exploration and creativity. Play is how they make sense of the world. Whether building with blocks, creating art or role-playing with friends, play allows them to explore their imagination, express emotions and develop critical life skills. In South Africa, where our cultural heritage is woven through everyday life, play becomes an even more powerful tool to connect children with their roots, their peers and their environment.
The benefits of play-based learning extend far beyond the classroom. It nurtures creativity, strengthens problem-solving skills and enhances emotional intelligence. When children play, they’re not only learning how to interact with the world; they’re developing a love for learning itself. Play allows children to experiment, make mistakes and try again. This builds resilience and a sense of accomplishment, teaching them that challenges are an opportunity to grow.
Read more about the power of play and ideas for play that can unlock potential.
Eyres says: “At Dibber, we combine care with education seamlessly. It’s not just about what children learn, but how they feel while learning. Our Nordic-based curriculum focuses on both, creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe to explore, express, and expand. We are helping them understand that they are seen, heard and loved, not only by their parents, but by the community around them. In a country as diverse and vibrant as South Africa, this sense of belonging is crucial. Every child brings something unique to the world, and our role as educators and caregivers is to help them discover that magic within themselves.”
unique approach
By blending the progressive values of a Nordic curriculum with the richness of South Africa’s diverse culture, Dibber has created a space where children not only learn, but also thrive. This holistic approach to their overall wellbeing assures them that they matter, that their thoughts, feelings and actions have value, and that they are a vital part of the world around them.
Imagine the impact on a child’s future when they grow up knowing they are worth everything. They become empowered, resilient and compassionate. They’re not just prepared for school –they’re prepared for life, ready to take on the world with confidence and kindness. This is the gift a holistic education offers your child.
“We want every child to walk into their future knowing they are seen, valued and ready to change the world with the strength of who they are. At Dibber, we believe that when care and education go hand in hand, we’re not just creating learners; we’re developing children who will shape the world with their hearts, “ Eyres concludes.
