About Us
Creative development center in Toronto since 1999
History
The Creative Development Center "Pochemuchka" opened in Toronto in December 1999, building on the foundation of the original school in Tashkent (operating since 1988). The Toronto location began with four experienced teachers who relocated after the Tashkent school's 10-year anniversary.
Philosophy
Parents are welcome observers at classes (when it doesn't disrupt the learning process), enabling them to reinforce learning methods at home and help children feel secure during early development stages.
Language & Cultural Preservation
A primary objective is supporting Russian language development. Few Toronto institutions teach Russian to children, making these programs significant. For younger students, language instruction integrates into early development curricula (alphabet, reading, writing). Older children receive specialized instruction based on proficiency levels.
Bilingual children typically develop vocabulary more slowly but this gap is manageable with consistent family engagement. Practical applications (theatrical roles, animation projects) accelerate language acquisition naturally.
Community
The organization fostered the "Russian Family and Children Club of Toronto," supporting cultural traditions, family values, and recreational activities blending entertainment with educational benefit.
Our Team
Svetlana Arapova
Center Director
Vyacheslav Rek
Chess — master player, champion, USSR tournament participant
Elena Bakusheva
French Language
Photos and full bios coming soon.