If you need to choose a preschool in Hong Kong for 2027, here’s a look at the campus and the classrooms of the Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS). We talk to a panel of five young students from the CDNIS Early Years Centre as well as Dr Karen Lindner, the new Lower School Principal.
How does your day start and how do you get to CDNIS?
- “I wake up and brush my teeth, then I walk to school!” – Ayden
- “I wake up and play with the big bus and fire truck, and then I walk to school.” – Lucas
- “I like to come to school! When I wake up, I brush my teeth.” – Tiffney
- “Dada drives me to school. It’s a blue car, medium size.” – Asher
- “I go with my big brother and sister and take the train to go to school.” – Oliver
What do you do when you first get to school?
- “I change my shoes because we can’t wear outdoor shoes inside!” – Ayden
- “I choose which friends to play with.” – Lucas
- “I take off my shoes and play with the doll house.” – Tiffney
- “Take off my shoes and play.” – Asher
- “I line up and play with Ms Salvador.” – Oliver
What’s your favourite activity in the classroom?
- “Reading funny books and circle time with Ms Ivy!” – Ayden
- “Storytime and music time. I also like to paint.” – Lucas
- “I like storytime and painting.” – Tiffney
- “Storytime with my teachers.” – Asher
- “I like to make many things with my friends.” – Oliver
What is your favourite activity during school playtime?
- “I like to play in the treehouse, especially when it’s decorated!” – Ayden
- “I like the treehouse and the cars! I really like the cars.” – Lucas
- “I like the big treehouse and playing with the cars.” – Tiffney
- “I play with the cars with Helen! Also, I like the tent.” – Asher
- “I like to go to the treehouse because I can play with my friends in the castle.” – Oliver
What do you do at snack time?
- “I eat yummy food!” – Ayden
- “I like to drink orange juice!” – Lucas
- “I like to eat.” – Tiffney
- “I eat and talk to my friends.” – Asher
- “I like to eat vegetables and broccoli during snack time.” – Oliver
What do you like about your teachers?
- “I like Ms Ivy’s flower dress and her smile.” – Ayden
- “Mr Kenji and Ms Jill!” – Lucas
- “I like Ms Vicky; Ms Vicky always helps me.” – Tiffney
- “I love Sandy Laoshi! She always makes me laugh!” – Asher
- “I like Eddie Laoshi because he teaches me about animals.” – Oliver
A word from the Lower School Principal
DR KAREN LINDNER is the new Lower School Principal at CDNIS. Originally from Melbourne, she was previously the Lower School Vice Principal, and before that an elementary school vice principal in Beijing.
“Successful early years education is about creating a space where children feel safe, curious and confident to explore the world around them. It’s always enlightening to watch young learners begin to develop a sense of independence: making choices, solving problems and taking ownership of their learning, while also learning how to be part of a group, to listen, collaborate and care for others.
“Language development plays such a key role in this, and I really value how our bilingual programme supports children in building both English and Chinese from the very first day of Nursery. It’s not just about learning words: it’s about expressing ideas, connecting with others, and developing a strong sense of identity. When we combine that with thoughtful environments, strong relationships and close partnerships with families, we’re giving children the best possible start to their learning journey.”
Canadian International School of Hong Kong is at 36 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen.
2525 7088 | cdnis.edu.hk
This article on CDNIS Early Years Education first appeared in Expat Living magazine. You can buy the latest mag or an annual subscription, or read the digital version for free now.
