A 2022 UAE university study had observed that one in six couples in the country faces difficulty in conceiving
uae1 day ago
In a bid to promote Emirati culture and language, a nursery in Dubai is taking an innovative approach by hiring local mothers over the age of 50 to engage with children and "foster an authentic family atmosphere".
“The Arabic language is declining as children spend significant time playing English games on their devices. This is why we prioritise Arabic as our mode of instruction," Hamda Al Mutaiwi, director of Al Freej Nursery, told Khaleej Times.
The community nursery is pioneering a fully Emirati approach by employing senior mothers who dedicate their free time to interacting with children in ways that celebrate Emirati culture.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Al Mutaiwi explained, “We are specifically looking for mothers over 50 who are available and eager to teach.” Applicants must meet specific requirements such as being a UAE national with qualifications in early childhood education and relevant experience.
Launched by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (Iacad), Al Freej Nursery is a community-focused establishment that aims to instil Islamic values, traditions, and authentic Emirati culture in young children. “We concentrate on two key aspects: the Arabic language and national identity,” added Al Mutaiwi.
The nursery accepts children from 1 to 4 years old. Currently, the nursery has 45 children, but it can accommodate up to 101 children. Priority for registration is given to working mothers from Iacad and Emirati families, though any working mother from nearby areas can also register her child.
As many Emirati customs and traditions are at risk of fading away, the nursery strives to nurture an Emirati community for children. Al Mutaiwi mentioned that they are collaborating with Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) to enhance their initiatives.
To enrol, parents need to visit the nursery with their child for an introductory session with the director about the registration process. The monthly fee for the nursery is Dh2,750.
The nursery is equipped with three classrooms, a clinic, indoor and outdoor play areas, and rooms named after heritage figures like “Dkhtoora Zainab,” honouring a respected late doctor in the UAE. Additionally, the nursery features traditional Emirati clothing as uniforms, with boys wearing 'kandura' and girls in 'mukhawara.'
Looking ahead, Al Mutaiwi announced plans to open another nursery in Dubai next year in collaboration with KHDA, further expanding their commitment to fostering local culture.
ALSO READ:
A 2022 UAE university study had observed that one in six couples in the country faces difficulty in conceiving
uae1 day ago
Primakov School, which the centre is a part of, offers scholarships to talented students from approximately 50 regions across Russia
uae1 day ago
Dr Daniel Kovich, of United States Department of Agriculture, said though GM crops give promising results, there remain several challenges including high costs
uae1 day ago
The national campaign also screened over 95 per cent of those who visited government healthcare centres last year for cardiovascular diseases
uae1 day ago
Sheikh Mohammed visited the mourning majlis in Dubai
uae1 day ago
Putin also expressed his appreciation for the UAE's recent mediation efforts, which successfully facilitated the exchange of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine
uae1 day ago
The expat spoke of the 'moral standard' in the emirate and said he was just doing his duty
uae1 day ago
Among the 28.8 million participants from 50 countries, these young readers represent the spirit of the challenge, showcasing their love for the language
uae1 day ago