Jackie

Originally from Australia, Jackie has almost 30 years of experience in education. During her storied career, Jackie has worked as a teacher, a curriculum consultant in early childhood education and early literacy, a deputy principal, and principal in Australia and abroad. She has spent a good deal of time in China, serving as a principal in international schools. The vast and diverse experience Jackie brings to our ECC will help us continue to grow and serve as a model of excellent early childhood education. 

Did you know that from pregnancy to age three, our brains develop faster than at any other time in our lives? The experiences, relationships, and environments we are exposed to during these early years shape who we become. At this stage, social interactions are essential for building the strong neural connections that support future learning and experiences. In a sense, these early social interactions form the structure and blueprint of our brains for life.

At Beijing City International School, we understand how crucial the first years of a child’s life are in shaping their future. That’s why we offer education starting from age two—a critical period for learning and development. Our Toddler Program is grounded in research from Harvard University, the Royal Foundation’s Centre for Early Childhood, and other esteemed institutions focused on early years education.

Our program is designed to foster meaningful social connections between children and adults, supporting healthy brain development. From the moment your child is accepted into our school, we begin building relationships with both your child and your family, because we know how important this is for successful learning. Children in our program learn:

1. That their family will return to pick them up, supported by a phased transition program that promotes emotional well-being. Our unique transition process ensures your child forms strong bonds with our staff, creating a sense of safety— the foundation for all learning.

2. How to build relationships with adults outside their family. These experiences stimulate different parts of the brain, helping to expand and strengthen neural connections vital for future learning.

3. How to connect with other children—how to engage in play, resolve conflicts peacefully, and build lasting friendships.

4. How to recognize, name, and regulate their emotions.

5. Through a curriculum that promotes a strong sense of identity as a learner and fosters positive attitudes and dispositions toward learning.

6. To think critically and creatively, maintaining their natural curiosity through unique and stimulating learning experiences provided by our expert teachers.

7. To become global citizens, developing compassion and an understanding that others may have different perspectives that can enrich their own learning.

8. English language skills through songs and daily conversations with our teachers, including native English speakers. Children are also introduced to early literacy by exploring symbols and mark-making—the foundation of reading and writing.

9. To expand their Chinese vocabulary and comprehension through engaging, authentic experiences that naturally enhance language development.

Yong Zhao, Foundation Distinguished Professor at the University of Michigan, emphasizes that one of the most important outcomes of education is helping children learn to be responsible for themselves. Our teachers take pride in maintaining a gentle pace throughout the day, giving children the time and space to learn essential life skills such as wiping their face, tidying up, putting on their shoes, and feeding themselves. We understand that home life can be fast-paced, so we intentionally slow things down at school to nurture your child’s independence—skills that are crucial for success in school, university, and beyond.

Children who begin in our Toddler Program transition smoothly into our Nursery Program. They already know the school environment and staff, are familiar with daily routines and rituals that provide a sense of safety and comfort, and feel confident navigating different spaces. They also come equipped with the confidence to ask questions, think critically, and explore their learning in innovative ways. Their natural curiosity—a key attitude for lifelong learning—is deepened through diverse experiences and regular interactions with peers that broaden their thinking and expand their learning possibilities.

Our Toddler Program features a stable, experienced team of highly qualified educators who continue to learn and grow professionally. All our teachers participate in high-quality professional development supported by strong partnerships with internationally recognized experts in early childhood education.

Of course, every child grows at their own pace, and whether starting school at two is the right choice depends on your child’s personality and your family’s readiness. I’ve always believed that education isn’t about getting ahead—it’s about being present, paying attention, and walking alongside our children as they discover the world.

This is something I’ve come to understand through both observation and experience. If you’re navigating a similar decision, take your time. Listen to your child. Consider what might unfold for them in a nurturing, thoughtfully designed environment.

There’s no need to rush—growth doesn’t happen on a schedule. But a strong, gentle beginning can make all the difference. And when the time feels right, we hope to welcome you to the BCIS Early Childhood Center！

Henry’s Mom

"Henry started at ECC when he was just 2, and one of the biggest changes we saw was in his language—especially his English. We didn’t teach him much at home, and there wasn’t really an English-speaking environment, but he just picked it up naturally from school.

By the time he moved up to the next class, he was already speaking quite confidently. When we traveled to Australia this April, we were honestly blown away—he was chatting with strangers, sharing toys with people in line, even going up to the hotel front desk on his own to ask for a straw. He proudly told someone in the elevator, 'I’m from China.' It was adorable—and so confident!

He’s also super into messy play—sand, paint, water—you name it. And the teachers totally embrace that. They don’t try to keep kids clean; they get right in there with them. It’s so great to see him learning through play. He absolutely loves school—he even gets upset if he has to miss a day."

Jasper’s Dad

"Jasper started in the toddler class and now he’s in his final year at ECC. Watching him grow over the years has been amazing. From the very beginning, we wanted him in a place where he could build confidence and independence, and ECC really gave him that.

The transition into school was super smooth—the school eased him in gradually, which made a big difference. Now he’s not shy at all. He’s open, curious, and totally up for trying new things. Honestly, in some ways, he’s even braver than us!

He’s become more confident, more independent, and better at expressing himself. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to his education."

Chuanchuan's Mom

"What surprised us the most was how naturally Chuanchuan started speaking English—it really just happened on its own at school. His Chinese is also strong—he can retell stories after hearing them once, which blows my mind!

We borrow up to 10 books a day from the ECC library, so reading has become a big part of our routine. One day at pickup, I walked in and saw every child quietly reading at their little tables. That moment really touched me—it showed me just how deeply the love of reading is encouraged here.

I truly believe that 2 to 3 years old is the golden age for language. We thought about waiting to start school, but now I’m so glad we didn’t. Starting early at ECC was the best decision we made. We really love this community—it’s been the perfect beginning！"