Early Years Programs and Services

* Note: Listed are our core programs only. Check the calendars for the many other programs that are offered at the different sites.

Infants

Baby Time / Infant Program: Come join our friendly atmosphere and together you and your infant can explore physical and sensory play. Meet other parents and share in parenting topics, brain games, singing and circle time. Some sites have a monthly guest speaker on topics such as infant signing, home-made baby food, and more. Some sites meet weekly all year; other sites have limited time sessions. 

Zero to Six Programs

Bedtime Buddies: This evening program includes a period of free play followed by lots of stories told in a variety of ways with special props.

Fun in the Park (Summer): Come play in the fresh air with us, while enjoying bubbles, parachute, obstacles courses, water activities along with fun games and songs.

Cooking with Kids: A variety of special activities and experience for children (aged 18 months to 6 years) to enjoy. At some sites this is offered during drop-in; other sites run sessions.

Science for Kids: This program exposes preschooler’s ages 3-6 years to a variety of science and technology concepts through various hands on exciting experiments.

Mother Goose: Join the Early Years staff for an hour of songs, rhymes and stories. Parents will see how songs and rhymes can be used to improve behaviour.

Play and Learn Drop-in: Our ECE staff set up a play environment full of activities for the children. A time for children (0-6 years) and parents/caregivers to learn and have fun together with a wide variety of age appropriate activities, crafts and toys. Join in on a circle each morning; sing songs, listen to stories, and play games. All programming is planned, supervised, and implemented by trained staff.

School Readiness

ESSO Family Math: This fun-filled family program will help your child experience success in math as they take part in hands-on activities. Children will learn basic math concepts while parents gain confidence to help their children understand math.

Kindergarten Readiness Programs: These programs are Kindergarten readiness groups where preschoolers are exposed to early literacy and numeracy through songs, games and crafts. Parent/caregiver must be present.

Parent Opportunities

Family Connections: A public health nurse is available for private consultation and infants can be weighed.  Check the calendar for the location near you. (Perth only)

Well Baby/ Breastfeeding Clinic: This program runs weekly during baby time in Middlesex: A public health nurse is available to speak to parents and provide breastfeeding assistance and support.

Die-Cutter Workshops / Die Bonanzas: Your chance to make games, activities or crafts for the children in your life. Seasonally thematic dies from our other sites are usually provided at these workshops. Each site has 3 each year.

Family Time: A variety of parenting topics will be discussed with parents while our ECE staff provide a wide variety of stimulating activities for the children. This is a weekly program. Pre-registration required.

Guest Speakers: Each site brings in speakers on specific topics of interest to parents. Often held in the evenings, these topics have included bullying, fathering, and other topics pertinent to parents today. Check calendars regularly for dates and times.

Young Parents Place: Moms and/or dads under 25 years of age learn more about caring for their children and supporting each other in their parenting role. Childcare and supper are provided. In partnership with the Public Health Unit. (Listowel and Stratford only)