Dubai’s nurseries are actively aligning with the new Quality Framework for Early Childhood Care and Education, embedding innovative practices that focus on holistic child development, Arabic exposure, wellbeing, and inclusion.
At the heart of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority’s (KHDA) newly launched initiative is the idea of the “Dubai Child” — a young learner who is capable, curious, and deeply connected to their culture.
The framework outlines five core pillars: learning and curriculum; working in partnership with families and the wider community; creating strong learning environments; prioritising health, safeguarding and wellbeing; and strengthening system leadership.
Lama Bechara-Jakins, CEO Middle East, Babilou Family, explained that her team is “aligning (their) daily practices with the new KHDA framework by embedding the Sustainable Education Approach across all aspects of teaching, learning, and care.” She said the nursery’s six pillars — Emotional and Physical Security, Natural Curiosity, Nature-based Learning, Child Rhythms, Inclusion, and Partnering with Families — form the foundation of daily routines and interactions.
“Learning experiences are planned intentionally to nurture children’s holistic development from the very start of their journey,” Bechara-Jakins added. She highlighted how the approach fosters the ‘Dubai Child’ identity, providing opportunities that reflect children’s natural abilities, cultures, and motivations. Through the Sustainable Education approach, children engage in open-ended, inquiry-based experiences that encourage creativity and problem-solving, while wellbeing is supported through emotional regulation, resilience, and secure relationships.
The nursery’s environments are designed to be safe, inclusive, and inspiring. Bechara-Jakins noted, “Classrooms follow a ‘less is more’ approach, calm, uncluttered spaces that reduce overstimulation and support focus,” while natural elements and sensory-rich outdoor experiences help children feel grounded and connected. Family partnerships are integral, ensuring children feel supported both at home and in the nursery.
The new framework is designed to reassure parents and give them more confidence in the care their children receive, while also offering educators a clear tool to reflect on their practices and map out meaningful improvements.
Other nurseries also reiterated that the emphasis is clear: nurturing curiosity, fostering emotional safety, and creating environments where every child’s uniqueness is recognised, valued, and supported from the very start of their learning journey.
Shifa Yusuff Ali, CEO of IdeaCrate Edutainment, echoed the focus on child-centred learning, stating the framework “reinforces values we already hold.” Her team has strengthened staff upskilling in Montessori-inspired practice, child wellbeing, and safeguarding, alongside updating observation and assessment tools to gain deeper insight into each child’s learning journey.
Ali explained, “We design our classrooms and outdoor areas with intention, ensuring they feel calm, warm, and rich in sensory opportunity. Individual learning journeys help us respond to each child’s strengths and needs. Our inclusion practices ensure early identification, close communication with families, and a truly welcoming environment for every learner.”
For British Orchard Nursery and Teacher Training Centre, UAE UK, the new KHDA standards have prompted enhanced planning, observation, and staff development.
Dr Vandana Gandhi, CEO and Founder, described their approach as “grounded in project-based, child-led learning, where educators build on children’s interests to create purposeful learning experiences.”
“We are also expanding Arabic exposure through stories, songs, and hands-on activities that feel natural and joyful.”
Gandhi added that quality assurance is maintained through ISO-certified health and safety frameworks, the EFQM (globally recognised management framework), continuous-improvement methodology, and their internal inspection system, BONQ.
She added, “This philosophy also extends to inclusion. Through our BONSAI (British Orchard Nursery’s Speciality for Accessibility and Inclusion) specialist support initiative, we are expanding services for children of determination, promoting an early years’ culture where every child can participate fully and thrive.”
© Khaleej Times
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