The ABC Way
A balanced approach to joyful learning and academic readiness
“The time children spend with us is brief, but the confidence, curiosity, and love of learning they carry forward lasts a lifetime.”
The ABC Way is the result of thoughtfully bringing together the finest aspects of proven teaching methodologies, philosophies, and learning environments. We draw inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach, the Montessori Method, Waldorf and Steiner principles, Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years, and play-based inquiry learning.
At ABC, we believe children learn best when they are actively involved in their environment — both indoors and out. We teach children how to learn, embracing the joy of discovery and “learning through fun.”
What is the ABC Way?
A Thoughtfully Designed Approach to Early Learning
The ABC Way is our unique, hybrid approach to early childhood education, designed specifically for the needs of children growing up in Tokyo’s international community.
We believe children thrive when learning is both joyful and purposeful. Our approach blends hands-on exploration, creativity, and play with a structured framework that ensures children are building the skills needed for their next stage of education.
At ABC, learning is not one-dimensional. It is layered, intentional, and responsive to each child.
Our Educational Foundations
Inspired by the World’s Leading Early Childhood Approaches
The ABC Way draws from the most respected early childhood philosophies, combining their strengths into a cohesive and balanced experience.
We are inspired by:
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Reggio Emilia — child-led exploration, creativity, and environment as the third teacher
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Montessori — independence, hands-on learning, and purposeful activity
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Waldorf / Steiner — imagination, rhythm, and holistic development
These approaches guide how we design our classrooms, structure our days, and support each child’s growth.
Academic Readiness with Purpose
Building the Skills Needed for What Comes Next
While we value exploration and creativity, we also understand the importance of academic readiness in Tokyo’s international school landscape.
Our curriculum is informed by globally recognized frameworks, including:
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Jolly Phonics for early literacy
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The British Early Years Foundation Stage
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The Ontario Early Years Framework
Through these, children develop strong foundations in:
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reading and writing
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early mathematics
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communication and language
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problem-solving and critical thinking
All delivered in a way that is engaging, experiential, and developmentally appropriate.
Learning Through Experience
Hands-On, Experiential, and Meaningful
We believe children learn best by doing.
Our classrooms are designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and real-world connection. Through themed projects, collaborative activities, and guided discovery, children engage deeply with what they are learning.
This approach allows children to:
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build real understanding
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retain knowledge more effectively
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develop curiosity and initiative
Learning becomes something they experience, not something they are simply taught.
The Role of the Educator
Guiding, Supporting, and Inspiring
At ABC, teachers are more than instructors. They are guides, observers, and facilitators of each child’s learning journey.
Our educators:
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carefully observe each child’s interests and development
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provide thoughtful guidance and support
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create environments that invite exploration and discovery
This allows learning to feel natural, personal, and deeply engaging
The Outcome
Confident, Curious, and Ready
Children who leave ABC are:
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confident in themselves and their abilities
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curious and engaged learners
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socially and emotionally aware
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prepared for entry into leading international primary schools
They leave not only with strong academic foundations, but with a genuine love of learning and the confidence to take on what comes next.