Who We are
About Piccolo
Piccolo Tirana is a learn through play center dedicated to the development and growth of children ages 0-8. Our center features a library, two play areas, snack bar, and music and storytime classes.
Library
We have over 350 books in both English and Albanian specially chosen to promote a love of reading and early literacy development. Families can check out up to 5 books at a time for a period of 3 weeks.
Play Area
We have two play areas, one especially for children 0-3 and another for children ages 3-8, but can still be enjoyed by smaller children accompanied by a grown-up. Our play areas are divided into 8 sections of play: a reading nook, toy land, felt wall, music corner, active play gym, pretend play house, sensory play, and an art creation station.
Cafe & Snack Bar
Our cafe provides healthy and customizable snack options that are arranged to be appealing to children. We also provide express coffee, drinks, and baked goods for our grownup guests too.
Classes
We currently offer storytime and music classes. Our music classes follow the Musikgarten program and are designed to be just right for each age and development level. The curriculum was developed by music and movement experts in the US & Germany. Our teachers are expertly trained to combine a love of music, reading, and an understanding of children and the way they learn.
A few more highlights about Piccolo:
Holistic Education: Our play area, library, and classes focus on early literacy and social and emotional development. All of our toys, activities, and lessons are specially selected to target key areas of development for children including sensory, emotional, language, motor, and intellectual processes.
Eco & Kid Friendly: Our instruments and toys are made of natural materials and are designed to be safe for even the smallest of babies to handle. Each is specifically chosen to promote their development. We selected materials, such as wood and wool, that are safe, free of chemicals and choking hazards, and prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.
Great for Grownups Too: By participating in our classes, parents and caregivers are able to extend the experience into the home and enjoy crucial bonding time that helps children build their confidence.
Alexa and her daughter, 2020
Hello and welcome to Piccolo Tirana! I am Alexa Hysi, the founder and primary teacher of Piccolo Tirana. I am so excited to sing, read, and play with you! I am passionate about providing natural and fun learning experiences and equipping parents with the confidence they need to raise happy and confident children. I am a licensed educator and certified Musikgarten teacher. I earned my Masters of Education from the University of Nevada - Las Vegas and taught in public and private schools in the United States and here in Albania. I am from Las Vegas, NV, USA but have lived in Tirana with my family since 2017.
In 2018, my husband and I welcomed our daughter into our family. We started looking for opportunities for her to play and learn with children her age but struggled to find exactly what we were looking for. So as a family we decided to create Piccolo Tirana to offer opportunities for families with small children like ours to learn and play together through literacy and music.
Our goal is to create a natural learning environment built around socializing and fun. In pursuing this goal, we also want to support small businesses in Tirana, Albania and highlight local artisans who specialize in creating arts and goods for small children. Our studio is equipped with natural materials produced and designed by local artisans.
Location
Our studio is located in the Komuna e Parisit neighborhood of Tirana, Albania.
Find us in the courtyard area behind Eco Market on Rruga Tish Dahia.
Paid underground parking and street parking is available.
