By Didi Ananda Kaostubha
Principal and Director
Started in 1977, in Rekjavik, the capital of Iceland, Leikskólinn Saelukot (“cottage of bliss”) was the first Neohumanist school opened in Europe. At Leikskólinn Sælukot, we are devoted to integrating Neohumanist Education (NHE) principles into our curriculum and fostering creativity, empathy, and sustainable living among our young learners. We are excited to share our recent initiatives and experiences with the broader community.
Building Expansion and Growth
We recently completed the extension of our building to accommodate 30 additional children and seven more staff members. While a small part of the work remains to be completed, we will soon apply for government permission to admit these additional children. Currently, we have 72 children and 28 staff members. Once permission is granted, we will have a total of 102 children and 35 staff members.
Curriculum and Education
We follow the NHE curriculum alongside the national curriculum. Our preschool caters to children aged 1 to 6 years, teaching them the value of a healthy lifestyle. We serve only sentient food, known in this country as a vegan kindergarten. All meals are prepared from scratch, and our school is renowned for its exceptional food and care.
Structure and Support
Our school consists of four departments, each led by a head teacher who manages daily routines, themes, and special events. Additionally, we have two special educators who support children with physical and psychological needs. Staff members receive training six times a year in working according to neohumanist principles and local regulations.
Storytelling and Thematic Learning
We have implemented a storytelling project that emphasizes compassion. Children create artwork related to the current theme, which changes every third week. Both staff and children fully immerse themselves in the theme.
Outdoor Learning and Farming
With summer approaching, we have rented a small piece of land to teach children about nature and farming. In our community garden, we grow salad and other crops, allowing children to connect with the environment and learn sustainable practices.
Circle of Love
Our daily “Circle of Love” includes yoga and meditation, with children joyfully singing “Baba Nam Kevalam.” Morning circle time is especially significant; we have observed that children who miss it tend to behave differently throughout the day. We have also translated the Yama and Niyama principles into an Icelandic song that the children sing daily. Occasionally, we discuss the meaning of this beautiful song with them.
