In today’s world, more and more parents are seeking educational spaces that nurture not only cognitive growth but also emotional, physical, and social development. Hobbiton, a kindergarten located near Tbilisi’s Lisi Lake, meets this need with a holistic approach that centers on the child’s individuality, play-based learning, and eco-conscious environment.
With 13 years of experience in early childhood education, Hobbiton brings together a team of trained professionals who meet international standards and make it a priority to consider each child’s development carefully. Originally operating under a different name and location, the team made a deliberate move during the pandemic to relocate to a healthier, more natural setting, and that’s how Hobbiton was born.
Hobbiton’s philosophy on education is based on the principles of constructivism, which emphasizes discovery, experience, and child-centered learning
“The pandemic made it clear to us that an eco-friendly environment is essential for raising children,” says founder Darejan Ezugbaia. “We chose the name ‘Hobbiton’ because it evokes the idea of a small, magical village — and the idea actually came from the children themselves.”
A learning model built on exploration and play
Hobbiton’s philosophy on education is based on the principles of constructivism, which emphasizes discovery, experience, and child-centered learning. Teachers are not just instructors — they are facilitators who support children as they explore the world through play and sensory engagement.
Unlike traditional models, where the teacher and curriculum are the centerpieces, here it’s the child’s interests that help the process. Activities are designed around developmental goals — social-emotional, cognitive, physical (fine and gross motor), communicative (language and speech), and adaptive (self-care), but remain flexible enough to accommodate each child’s individual pace.
“We plan weekly activities, but children don’t distinguish between play and work,” Ezugbaia explains. “Often, the most meaningful learning happens through spontaneous interactions. We adapt our activities based on what the children are genuinely interested in.”
Accepting children from 8 months old
One of the most important aspects that sets Hobbiton apart is its early enrollment age. The kindergarten accepts children as young as eight months, something many parents find especially valuable.
“We introduced this based on parent feedback and our own experience,” says Ezugbaia. “We saw that many families already had older children in our program and wanted the same nurturing environment for their younger ones. Our caregivers are trained specifically in early childhood development and continuously participate in professional development.”
A green environment that encourages real-world connection
The current location near Lisi Lake provides a safe, clean, and ecologically sustainable setting, but Hobbiton is preparing for its next chapter — the opening of a new campus. Construction is already underway, and the new facility will meet the highest safety and environmental standards, with dedicated spaces for outdoor learning.
“The new campus will allow children to engage with nature, soil, water, sand, in ways that are critical for motor development,” Ezugbaia says. “Children don’t melt in the rain. With the right clothing and footwear, outdoor exploration becomes a valuable developmental tool.”
Weekly activities often include ‘green lessons,’ agro-tours, and hands-on workshops where children visit greenhouses, pick strawberries, and learn about gardening and agriculture
Weekly activities often include ‘green lessons,’ agro-tours, and hands-on workshops where children visit greenhouses, pick strawberries, and learn about gardening and agriculture. These experiences not only develop gross motor skills but also encourage a sense of responsibility and respect for the environment within the children.
Professional support
Hobbiton also offers in-house psychological and behavioral therapy services when needed. Parents are involved in every decision regarding their child’s wellbeing, and the presence of specialists ensures that each child’s emotional and behavioral development is met.
Preparing children for the next chapter
Beyond the classroom, Hobbiton organizes regular excursions, helping children learn social behavior, practice independence, and understand how to navigate the world around them. Whether it’s learning how to sit properly at a café or participating in community events, children are taught not just through instruction, but by doing.
“We constantly receive messages from parents saying, ‘This is what other kindergartens don’t offer,’” says Ezugbaia. “That trust means everything to us and it’s something we take very seriously.”
Hobbiton’s distinctiveness
Hobbiton is a developmental space where education, care, and curiosity merge. With a clearly defined mission, values focused on child-centered growth, and a commitment to eco-conscious education, it offers something that few other institutions can match — a nurturing and imagination-inspiring space for children to start preparing for life.
And soon, with its new eco-campus near Lisi Lake, Hobbiton will expand, giving more children the chance to grow, learn, and thrive in a setting designed just for them.
By Team GT
