Where curiosity, connection, and creativity come to life.
After moving to Canada, our founder and pedagogical director1, Karina Carvalho, began volunteering at her children's elementary school. Through that experience and her work in early childhood education, she recognized a gap in Calgary's childcare landscape.
Many programs viewed the early years as preparation for school. Karina believed it was a unique time of curiosity, creativity, and discovery, when children build confidence, relationships, and a lifelong love of learning.
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, Karina and co-founder André created a school where children are encouraged to explore, express themselves, and grow at their own pace. Today, those same values shape every classroom, every learning experience, and every relationship we build with children and their families.
For Karina, Free To Be Kidz is more than a school. It is a place where children are known, listened to, and encouraged to be themselves.
Children help shape their own learning.
We believe children are capable and full of ideas, so they have a real say in their day. They explore their interests, make choices, and actively take part in their own learning instead of simply following instructions.
The environment teaches, too.
Every room here is thoughtfully designed — natural materials, open-ended pieces, and cozy corners that spark curiosity and real exploration, not just keep kids busy.
Learning becomes visible.
Instead of a generic report card, you'll see real photos, notes, and moments from your child's day — a living record of how they're growing and discovering, shared with you as it happens.
Families are true partners.
We build relationships grounded in openness, trust, and warmth — because these early years are something we do together with you, not something we simply report back on.
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