The Early Years program at the International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) is designed as the beginning of a lifelong learning journey. In this nurturing environment, play is not only enjoyable but a vital component of brain development, cultivating children's natural curiosity and independence from the very start. 

These formative years are critical, shaping how children learn and engage with the world throughout their lives. Every element of ISHCMC’s Early Years program is intentionally crafted to inspire, support, and challenge young minds.

Nurturing confidence and independence

From day one, young learners at ISHCMC are gently encouraged to build confidence and independence. Children are empowered to make choices, explore their interests, and develop a strong sense of self. 

As Ms. Niamh, a teacher at ISHCMC, explains: "Early Years Program provides children with a nurturing, trusting environment where open-ended play inspires curiosity, builds confidence, and encourages them to take risks, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning." 

Whether it’s selecting a play station, initiating a collaborative project, or confidently sharing ideas, each experience helps nurture resilience and self-reliance. Educators offer subtle guidance, allowing children to take developmentally appropriate risks in a safe, supportive environment.

The power of play-based learning

Play is recognized as the most effective and natural way for young children to learn. Through imaginative, engaging play, children develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a genuine curiosity about the world. Teachers play an active role by observing, asking thoughtful questions, and subtly guiding learning. 

A simple block-building session can evolve into an exploration of engineering principles, while imaginative role-play can foster empathy and social understanding. 

This is not just unstructured fun - it is intentional, inquiry-driven play that promotes creativity, collaboration, and a joyful approach to discovery.

Environments that inspire learning

Learning environments at ISHCMC reflect Reggio-inspired principles combined with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). This blend creates inspiring, beautifully designed spaces that serve as a "third teacher," encouraging exploration and independence. 

Classrooms are filled with natural light and equipped with flexible, open-ended materials that adapt to children’s interests. Teachers act as responsive partners, closely observing and listening to children’s ideas, then offering provocations to extend learning. 

As Ms. Leanne Le, ISHCMC PYP Coordinator, notes: "At the International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC), we don’t just offer an Early Years program, we offer a foundation for life. Our approach is guided by global research, a deep respect for childhood, and decades of experience nurturing capable, compassionate learners." 

This philosophy empowers children, giving them ownership of their learning journey and nurturing agency from the very beginning.

New spaces for enhanced exploration

The new Early Explorers learning spaces, set to open in 2025, will deepen ISHCMC’s commitment to world-class early childhood education. Purpose-built and guided by the latest educational research, these environments will offer expanded opportunities for sensory-rich play, collaborative experiences, and nature connections. 

Designed to exude calmness and harmony, the new facilities will feature natural elements and thoughtful layouts optimized for early development. 

"We chose ISHCMC because we were deeply drawn to its educational philosophy, one that respects each child's natural curiosity and fosters a love of lifelong learning," says Ms. Jiwoon Yoon, a parent at ISHCMC, echoing the feelings of many families who appreciate this child-centered approach.

Students equipped for lifelong discovery

Children completing the ISHCMC Early Years program carry forward a strong foundation of curiosity, confidence, and compassion. As they transition into primary school, they bring with them not only essential academic skills but also emotional intelligence, a passion for learning, and the capacity to question, explore, and innovate. 

According to Ms. Kate, ISHCMC Primary Principal, "Children are capable, curious, and full of potential, deserving to be heard, valued, and challenged. Our mission is to nurture their natural curiosity and inspire deep understanding through meaningful, hands-on learning. We don’t just teach children, we believe in them." 

These young learners are prepared not just for the next stage of education but for a future defined by inquiry, creativity, and global citizenship, carrying with them the joy and wonder instilled during their earliest years.

To learn more about ISHCMC’s Early Years program, parents are warmly invited to join ISHCMC’s upcoming Open Days, held from 8:30 to 10:00 AM on the 14th, 21st, and 29th of August. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet our educators and leadership team, ask questions, and learn more about what makes our program so unique.

Please register to attend at:Phone: (028) 3898 9100Email: [email protected]

PV