Xavi Daycare and Preschool

Educator: Nighat Sharif
Language: English, Urdu, Punjabi and Hnku
I am Nighat Sharif, owner and educator at Xavi Dayhome and Preschool. I am a Child Care Level 2 certified educator with valid CPR and First Aid, food handling certification, and a police information check with vulnerable sector screening. Your child’s safety, well-being, and happiness are always my top priorities.
I hold a Master’s degree in linguistics and literature and bring over 15 years of teaching experience from my home country. This background allows me to create a rich language environment where children feel confident to express themselves, ask questions, and learn through play. I have also completed training in Brain Story and Trauma Awareness, which helps me understand each child’s unique experiences and support them with care, patience, and empathy.
At Xavi Dayhome and Preschool, my practice is guided by FLIGHT, Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Framework. I believe children are strong, capable, and curious learners. Through play-based experiences, nurturing relationships, and responsive caregiving, I support children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development while creating a warm environment where every child feels safe, valued, and included. I work closely with families to build trusting partnerships and to support each child’s growth and sense of belonging.

AGE Group:
Infants (0-12 months)
Toddlers (1-3 years)
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
School-aged (5+ years)
Activities / Special Programs:

I enjoy activities that support creativity, exploration, and meaningful learning. Crafting allows children to express themselves using open-ended materials while developing fine motor skills and confidence. I focus on the process rather than the final product, encouraging choice and creativity.
Loose parts play is especially meaningful to me because it promotes imagination and problem-solving. Simple materials like natural objects and recycled items can be used in many ways, allowing children to create, experiment, and collaborate freely.
Block play supports early math, balance, and spatial awareness. I enjoy watching children plan, build, and rebuild structures while learning patience, teamwork, and persistence.
Reading stories is a calming and connecting experience. It helps build language, listening, and comprehension skills while encouraging children to share ideas and relate stories to their own lives.
Outdoor play offers opportunities for movement, exploration, and connection with nature. Activities like running, climbing, and observing the environment support physical development, self-regulation, and curiosity.
Nature Exploration
Nature exploration is an important part of how I enjoy spending time with children. I encourage hands-on experiences such as collecting leaves and stones, observing insects, feeling different natural textures, and noticing changes in weather and seasons. These experiences help children develop curiosity, mindfulness, and respect for the natural world. Nature-based play also supports sensory regulation, language development, and problem-solving as children ask questions, make observations, and share discoveries. Through regular outdoor exploration, children build a strong connection to nature while learning through real-life experiences.

Program Hour:
Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM