Come and Visit Us!
We'd love to welcome you to International Children's Play Corner.
Schedule a visit and see our children learning, playing and exploring together.
MEET OUR TEAM
Patrícia Lima
Early years 1-2
Patrícia Lima
I have been part of the Play Corner family for 23 years, and it truly is a privilege to have spent so many years caring for and watching little ones grow. I love getting to know each child, discovering their little personalities and seeing their confidence develop as they learn and explore the world around them.
I especially enjoy singing, music, stories and creative play with the children. There is nothing more special than seeing their little faces light up with excitement when they discover something new.
What I treasure most about my role is the bond I build with each child and the trust that families place in me to care for their little ones. Over the years, I have had the joy of watching children make their first friendships and grow into confident little people. Those memories are very special to me and I feel incredibly grateful to have been part of so many children’s early years.
Maria João Naughton
Early years 2-3
Maria João Naughton
Opening our International Children’s Play Corner 23 years ago was such a wonderful challenge for us and it has been an incredibly rewarding journey ever since.
I love watching how quickly children learn when they are given the freedom to explore and discover things on their own. Their curiosity, excitement, and joy when they learn something new, especially when I have the opportunity to guide and teach them are truly inspiring.
Through play, art, games, stories, music and physical activities, children have so many opportunities to learn, grow, express themselves, and simply enjoy being children.
One of the things I value most about our Play Corner is the opportunity to give each child individual attention. Because we work in small groups, we can get to know each child and respond to what he or she needs in a more personal and meaningful way.
And finally, I simply love hearing the children’s laughter and seeing how happy and comfortable they are in our Play Corner. My heart feels so full when I hear those precious words: “I love you, João.”
After 23 years, I still feel incredibly grateful to be part of their world and to have the privilege of watching them learn, discover and grow.
Elisa do Carmo
Early years 3-4
Elisa do Carmo
I love the wonderful curiosity of children at this age, the endless questions, imagination and excitement they bring to each day. It is so rewarding to watch them become more confident, independent and expressive as they learn through play and everyday experiences.
I enjoy creating opportunities for them to explore, experiment, be creative and discover things for themselves. Most of all, I treasure the little moments , a child proudly achieving something for the first time, sharing a new idea, making a friend or simply feeling happy and secure.
Being part of these early years, when so much learning and growth is happening, is a very special privilege.
Helen Ratcliffe
Early years 4/5/6
Helen Ratcliffe
I’ve been part of the project since 2003 and have enjoyed every moment of it since day one. My main focus is making sure the children enjoy their everyday experiences while feeling happy, confident and supported as they learn and grow.
I especially enjoy encouraging early literacy, developing a love of learning and helping each child develop all their capacities. One of the most rewarding parts of my role is seeing children become more independent, curious and excited about discovering new things.
I also place great importance on creativity, freedom of expression and giving children a voice in their own learning. In my care, children are encouraged to share their ideas openly, explore their imagination and express themselves in a safe and supportive environment where every opinion is valued.
