Parent Involvement
At Colibrii Child Academy, parental collaboration is a vital part of the educational journey, emphasizing open communication, shared goals, and active involvement. The academy views parents as partners, fostering consistent dialogue through daily updates, parent-teacher conferences, and workshops on early childhood development. Families are encouraged to participate in classroom activities, cultural sharing, and community events, creating a strong connection between home and school. By integrating parents’ insights and skills, Colibrii personalizes learning experiences, ensuring that each child’s needs are met. This collaborative approach not only supports children during transitions but also builds a nurturing, inclusive community where families and educators work together to help children thrive.
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Blending the Best
Reggio emilia approach
The Reggio Emilia approach is a child-centered educational philosophy that views children as capable, curious, and active participants in their learning. Originating in Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II, it emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and exploration within a thoughtfully designed environment, often referred to as the "third teacher." The curriculum is emergent, evolving based on children's interests and inquiries, while teachers act as co-learners and guides. Learning is seen as a social process, with strong collaboration among children, teachers, and parents. Central to the approach is the concept of the "hundred languages of children," encouragingexpression through various mediums such as art, music, and storytelling.Documentation of children's work is used to make learning visible and to reflect on theirgrowth and understanding, fostering a love for learning and critical thinking.
Montessori
The Montessori approach, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century, is an educational philosophy that emphasizes independence, self-discipline, and hands-on learning in a thoughtfully prepared environment. Rooted in the belief that children are naturally curious and capable, the method promotes exploration through activities tailored to their developmental stages, fostering intrinsic motivation and a love for learning. Montessori classrooms feature mixed-age groups, where children learn collaboratively and benefit from peer mentorship, and are equipped with carefully designed materials that encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and mastery of practical life skills. Teachers, or guides, play a supportive role by observing each child's needs and progress, offering individualized lessons and freedom within clear boundaries. This approach values the whole child, addressing cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development, and aims to cultivate independence, confidence, and a sense of responsibility in children, preparing them for lifelong learning and success.
Waldorf
The Waldorf approach, developed by Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century, is an educational philosophy that emphasizes holistic development, nurturing the intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth of children. Rooted in Steiner's belief in the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world, the method integrates academics with arts, movement, and practical activities to create a well-rounded learning experience. Waldorf classrooms are designed to be warm and homelike, featuring natural materials and a rhythm that mirrors the seasons and daily routines. Play-based learning dominates in early childhood, gradually transitioning to structured academics in later years, with a strong focus on storytelling, music, drama, and handcrafts. Teachers build long-term relationships with their students, often guiding the same class for multiple years to foster continuity and trust. The curriculum is intentionally interdisciplinary, aiming to ignite imagination, creativity, and a deep connection to the world, cultivating thoughtful, confident, and compassionate individuals.
Our Team
Dedicated to transforming early childhood education, Offir is passionate about integrating various methods and approaches, with a focus on creating personalized, child-centered learning environments. Originally from Colombia, she holds a Bachelor's in Psychology from Florida International University and Studio Art from the University of South Florida. With 15 years of experience working with children in roles ranging from teacher to pedagogical coordinator, she combines diverse educational methods to unlock each child’s potential, fostering creativity, self-expression, and a lifelong love of learning.
Offir Hernandez
Co-Founder
Diana Peláez, with 28 years of experience in early childhood education, holds a Bachelor's degree from Universidad del Norte and founded Centro Educativo Infantil Happy Time in 1998, a kindergarten inspired by Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and neuroscience. She established Fundación Tiempo Feliz in 2013, benefiting over 100,000 vulnerable children, and studied neuropedagogy at Happy Schools Institute in Barcelona. Recognized for her leadership, Diana advocates for early childhood education and reducing inequality in Colombia.
Diana Peláez
Co-Founder
With 14 years of experience working with children of various ages, Jacky brings a deep passion and love for nurturing young minds. Her approach emphasizes creating meaningful connections with each child, fostering an environment where learning is engaging and development is personalized. Jacky’s dedication to understanding each child's unique needs has made her a trusted educator, inspiring a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Jacky Llach
Co-Founder
Thomaz Schuch, from Porto Alegre, Brazil, is a Private Banker, financial advisor, and entrepreneur. An Engineering graduate from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul with additional certification in Intermarket Analysis and Investment Strategy from NYU, he is currently Vice President at XP International, where he has worked for 4 years. Previously, he spent 5 years at Safra as a Private Banker and Corporate Relationship Manager. Thomaz also co-founded Cooperativa Mãos Verdes, leading Reverse Logistics Consulting in Brazil for nearly 6 years, driving innovative solutions for waste management and environmental challenges.
Thomaz Schuch
Co-Founder
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Ana María Peláez is a passionate speaker, well-being coach, and expert in gamification. With a deep commitment to helping people live happier, more purposeful lives, she guides individuals and teams to develop self-leadership skills that boost performance both personally and professionally. Her approach combines positive psychology, coaching, and personal development to foster authentic happiness and well-being.
She is a certified Chief Happiness Officer from Florida International University and Chief Happiness Practitioner by Happitude (India), with specialized training in HR Agile Management (IC Agile), neurosales (BIIA LAB), and customer service (Disney Institute). Ana María is also a certified coach from the John Maxwell Team and holds a specialization in marketing and sales from the Universidad de Los Andes.
Ana Maria pelaez
Co-Founder
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