Where learning begins: A new chapter for the Bendum Crèche

Before a child enters kindergarten, learning has already begun.

This belief continues to shape the Bendum Crèche, a community-based early childhood care center that has grown from providing a safe space for young children into a prepared environment where curiosity, independence, and healthy development are intentionally nurtured.

Established in February 2023, the crèche was created in response to the need for quality early childhood care in Bendum. It supports young children during their most formative years while providing families with a safe and caring place where children can learn through play and daily experiences.

During its early years, the crèche was led by Alma Lumista, with the support of Arnel and Manuela Santander. Together, they created a warm and welcoming environment while continually seeking ways to improve the program.

A significant step forward came in 2025 when Pamela Lim, a maternal and public health systems strategist, health psychologist, and perinatal mental health advocate from Singapore, visited Bendum. Drawing on Montessori principles, she introduced recommendations to strengthen both the learning environment and the facilitation of children’s learning. Through mentoring, classroom observations, and coaching, Alma gained practical experience in facilitating purposeful, child-centered learning.

Along with the introduction of the Montessori principles was the provision of Montessori-inspired learning materials, practical life activities, and structured daily routines that encourage children to explore, make choices, and learn independently. Morning prayer, movement, storytelling, hygiene practices, and guided activities now provide a consistent rhythm that builds confidence, concentration, and self-discipline while allowing each child to learn at an appropriate pace.

When the crèche reopened in June 2026, Rellian Day Almahan assumed the role of facilitator, while Alma took on an assisting role. Pamela also remains involved, providing ongoing professional guidance as the program develops.

These efforts reflect APC’s commitment to accompanying Bendum families from the earliest stages of a child’s life, recognizing that education begins long before formal schooling. Every puzzle completed, every story shared, every encouraging word spoken in the crèche nurtures not only each child’s future but also strengthens the confidence of families, particularly the mothers, and enriches the life of the Pulangiyēn community, one child at a time.