General Educational Goals
From 12 months to 4 years, children develop so rapidly that it’s easy to lose track of their progress.
It’s important to remember to adjust our educational goals accordingly.
12-18mos
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Build a Sense of Security
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Begin Basic Communication Starting with Sign Language
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Encourage Early Independence
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Introduce Sensory Art Exploration
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Encourage a Love for Music and Movement
1.5-2.5yrs
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Build Autonomy
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Promote OCCI (Order, Concentration, Coordination, Independence)
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Enhance Practical Life Skills
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Boost Bilingual Development
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Support Emotional Development
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Initiate Social Interaction
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Encourage Creative Expression
2.5-4yrs
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Introduce Literacy Skills (Alphabet, Spelling, Reading & Writing)
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Explore Early Math Concepts
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Enhance Curiosity and Thinking Skills
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Nurture Emerging Leadership
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Foster Artistic Skills
What is POCCI?
At Firefly, we believe that every child is born with a natural drive to grow and learn. Like sponges, they absorb every detail from the environment around them. That’s why it is essential to create an optimal environment—both physically and emotionally—that meets their inner needs and supports their full development. At Firefly, we use the POCCI framework to intentionally design such an environment.
P – Psychology
A child’s psychological world is the foundation of effective education—and of a healthy, fulfilling life. At Firefly, we pay close attention to each child’s emotional needs, natural temperament, and developmental stage. We use the five love languages to build deep, trusting connections and apply a three-step approach to help children recognize, accept, and manage their emotions—while also learning to understand others. By nurturing a sense of safety, belonging, and self-worth, we help children develop strong inner confidence—key to lifelong learning and well-being.
O – Order
Children find peace and clarity in order. External order (clean, consistent environments) helps build internal order (organized thinking, self-discipline).
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Our classrooms are tidy, beautiful, and thoughtfully arranged.
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Routines and expectations are clear and consistent.
C – Concentration
Concentration is key to both academic success and emotional regulation. Research shows that children who experience flow—a state of deep, focused engagement—tend to achieve more and feel more fulfilled. Our hands-on, self-correcting materials encourage persistence, and we never interrupt a child who is deeply engaged—because those moments of concentration are where real growth begins.
C – Coordination
Movement is essential to development, especially for young toddlers. Both fine and gross motor coordination build independence and support healthy brain development.
At Firefly, our classroom is filled with purposeful movement activities—pouring, spooning, walking on the line, climbing, dancing, and more—to help children grow with confidence and joy.
I – Independence
Children are capable. With the right support, they can care for themselves and others in meaningful ways. It is through consistent self-work that deep, lasting confidence is built.
At Firefly, we carefully observe each child’s abilities and adjust tasks to be just slightly above their current level—challenging enough to promote growth without causing frustration.
Our Successful Stories
We’ve seen that almost every child encounters challenges—whether physical, emotional, or situational. Some move through them quickly, while others need time, patience, and extra support.
At Firefly:
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We form deep, loving connections with every child.
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We carefully observe and understand each child’s unique developmental path.
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We create personalized plans to foster growth, confidence, and resilience.
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We work closely with parents, especially when family dynamics or misunderstandings play a role in the challenge.
Over the past three years, we’ve supported many children in overcoming their obstacles—and watched them thrive and shine!
From Non-verbal to Bilingual Speakers
We guided two 2-year-olds from silence, each for different reasons, to bilingual fluency, employing varied and tailored strategies!
ps, a child from an English-only family even spoke Chinese in her dreams!
From Rough to Gentle and Kind
A 2-year-old who started at our school with tendencies of self-harm and aggression towards others has remarkably transformed into a gentle and kind individual!
From Distracted to Concentrated
A 2.5-year-old who initially couldn't finish even a short book due to constant distraction has significantly improved her concentration and has even started reading books by herself.
From Cries to Command
A 3-year-old who initially joined our school and frequently cried out for her mother every five minutes, has progressively settled in and emerged as a leader among their peers!
From Shy to Self-Assured
A 2-year-old, who arrived at our school extremely shy and often tugged at his ears when anxious, has grown confident and now assertively stands up for himself when necessary!
From "Not Working"
to "I Did It!"
A toddler who repeatedly said "not working" and avoided challenges now eagerly tries new tasks, persevering until he can exclaim, "I did it!"
From Milk to Meals
A 1.5-year-old who had relied solely on milk due to previous physical challenges began eating solid food at Firefly after much gentle encouragement. Since then, he has become a food lover—happier, more energetic, and more outgoing than ever!
From Clingy to Confident
After a serious illness, a 2-year-old became unusually clingy and withdrawn. With gentle reassurance and consistent praise for small accomplishments, he gradually regained his confidence and independence—returning to his curious, joyful self.
From Tantrums to Tranquility
A toddler who often rode an emotional roller coaster—frequently overwhelmed by big feelings and sudden outbursts—has made remarkable progress in managing her emotions after being gently introduced to the concept of the "Zen jar".
FireflyFM is now an AMS member school!