SMILE for Children: Strategy to Maximize the Inclusive learning Environment for Children
Period: 2015-2018,
Yerevan and Tavush Marz.
This project aimed to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of Armenia’s preschool education system, ensuring a smooth transition from preschool to primary education. Pedagogical workers and parents from 23 kindergartens in Yerevan and Tavush Marz were trained in child-centered, game-based preschool education and development, and inclusive teaching practices. All kindergartens were furnished with educational materials, games, and equipment to create a child-centered learning environment for approximately 2686 kindergarten students, 145 of whom had disabilities.
The program also developed a ‘Guide to a Smooth Transition from Preschool Educational Institutions to Primary School’ for educators and parents. Individualized plans for a smooth transition from kindergarten to primary school were developed and implemented for over 300 children.
The program additionally improved the knowledge of professors in the chair of preschool education at the Armenian State Pedagogical University, promoting the principles and strategies of inclusive pedagogy. Consequently, the 13 pedagogical courses offered by the chair of preschool education were reviewed and updated, and continue to be taught to future teachers. Based on the project model, the Law on Preschool Education in Armenia was revised to support the implementation of the Universal Inclusive Education System in the preschool education system.
