This document outlines the principles, expectations, and pedagogical approaches of Ontario’s Kindergarten Program (2016), designed to support the diverse needs of four- and five-year-old learners and prepare them for success in an evolving global community. Building on foundational frameworks such as ELECT and How Does Learning Happen?, it emphasizes child-centred, inquiry-based learning informed by national and international research. The program reflects Ontario’s commitment to fostering lifelong learning, critical literacy, and inclusive, equitable education. It underscores the importance of partnerships with families, the role of play and inquiry in learning, and the contributions of reflective and responsive educators. This document represents a shift from traditional pedagogies to developmentally appropriate practices that align with the province’s cohesive vision for early years education (Ontario, 2016).
After exploring this resource, we’d love to hear from you—share your thoughts in the comments below!
