At Jumeirah International Nurseries, we believe that the best early childhood education goes beyond academics, it’s about joy, wonder, curiosity, and connection.

So, this summer, we asked some of our incredible Jumeirah Nursery educators:

 What’s one summer memory from your childhood you’ll never forget, and what did it teach you?

Their answers were warm, funny, and reminded us why we’re so passionate about creating magical, meaningful moments for every child in our care.

Here’s what they shared:

 “Running barefoot in the grass” – Ms. Grace Thorpe, Head of Early Years

“I remember spending hours barefoot in the garden, building dens and climbing trees with my brother. It was wild, fun, and we felt completely free.”

What it taught me: “That role play and imaginative play matter! Today, I see how important it is to let children connect with nature and experience the world through touch, smell, and movement. It builds confidence and calm”.

“Building the biggest sandcastle” – Ms Michelle Williams,  Head of Early Years

“My sister and I used to compete to see who could build the tallest sandcastle at the beach with our dad. We’d dig, pile, pour water, and sometimes fail spectacularly, only to start again.”

What it taught me: “Resilience, teamwork and exploration! It’s not about perfection; it’s about trying, learning, laughing, and working together. Now, in the classroom, I love encouraging collaborative play, and I bring these 3 important lessons into our nursery environment every single day.”

“Spending time with my Grandparents” – Ms. Cleopatra, Teacher, JINS The Greens

“Summertime meant one thing: gathering at my grandparents’ house to play with all my cousins! We would sing, dance, and laugh together, and my grandmother always joined in. She told the most wonderful stories, each with a little life lesson woven in.”

What it taught me: “The importance of togetherness. Playing with others, connecting with parents and grandparents, and learning from the adults in our lives taught me the value of love, family, and shared joy.”

Why These Memories Matter Today

These sweet stories are more than just stories; they are a reminder that the best British nurseries, like JINS, focus on nurturing the whole child: emotionally, socially, physically, and intellectually, based on our own experiences and years of expertise.

We help children to:

• Build resilience through play
• Discover wonder in the world around them
• Find joy in simple moments
• Grow confidence through connection

This summer, whether you’re travelling, staying local, or making blanket forts at home, remember it’s the little moments your child will carry in their heart.

 Want to know how we bring these values to life every day at JINS?

Get in touch with our Team on 04 5400 500 to learn more about our Summer Camp or Nursery Programmes.