Escolinha

Escolinha, in Portuguese, literally translates to "little school" or "small school." It is most commonly used to refer to informal or preparatory educational settings, particularly those for young children, such as preschools, kindergartens, or after-school programs focused on sports or arts.

The term often carries a connotation of nurturing and foundational learning, emphasizing play-based activities and social development alongside basic academic skills. In Brazil, for example, escolinhas de futebol are common, referring to football (soccer) academies for children and adolescents. These academies focus not only on skill development but also on instilling values like teamwork and discipline.

Beyond early childhood education, "escolinha" can also describe specialized training programs or introductory courses in a specific field, suggesting a simplified or introductory approach to the subject matter. In these cases, it highlights the program’s role as a stepping stone to more advanced studies or professional practice.