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Children take part in a variety of planned activities that support their physical, social, emotional and intellectual growth and development.
Each room follows a daily routine so meal and nap times are consistent.
We emphasize language, communication, critical thinking, problem solving and development of positive self-esteem. Our staff help the children make choices and understand the consequences of their decisions.
A Typical Day
Each room is slightly different and activities vary day-to-day, but in general your child’s day will follow this routine:
7:00-8:45 Supervised Free Play, Center-based Activities, Art
8:45-9:00 Prepare for Breakfast
9:00-9:15 Breakfast Time
9:15-9:45 Clean-up & Circle Time (Songs, Stories, Games)
9:45-11:15 Free choice of planned weekly centers, Arts, Crafts etc. (may go for a walk or an outdoor play)
11:15-11:30 Prepare for lunchtime, set table, set out lunch
11:30-12:00 Eat Lunch
12:00-12:15 Prepare for rest period
12:15-2:15 Rest Time (Nap time)
2:15-2:45 Wake up & Wash up
2:45-3:15 Snack Time
3:15-4:15 Free choice of center activities
4:15-6:00 Supervised Free Play
Activities
Activities vary from room to room and week to week. The activities in each of our rooms are tailored to the developmental needs and interests of the children in those rooms.
Our program is play based and includes a number of activities.
- Sensory play
- Sand play
- Water play
- Physical activity
- Games
- Playground play
- Art
- Using a variety of materials and techniques
- Math and reading readiness
- Outings
- Public library
- Neighbourhood park
- Cooking
- Special programming taught by trained instructors
– Yoga
– Music - Field trips
– Past field trips include library, spray parks and playgrounds.
– Notice of field trips is provided in advance.
– Parents are invited to join us for field trips. - Projects
Meals
We serve nutritious, balanced food that is made from scratch whenever possible.
Our on-site cook prepares a hot lunch and two snacks daily. Our meals fulfil 2/3 of Canada Food Guide’s daily recommendations.We reinforce food conservation, table skills and manners with the children at meal times. This includes:
- independent serving;
- tasting of all the foods presented;
- consumption of the portions taken; and
- clearing of personal dishes and utensils.
Napping
Napping is vital to the growth and development of children, and we encourage each child to have a nap.
Our nap time is from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. We provide cots and other essentials for the children to sleep on, as well as cribs for infants 12 months and under.
Children may bring a special blanket and toy to sleep with, if they wish.
Clothing
Play can be a dirty job. For this reason, you and your child will be happiest if your child wears comfortable, washable clothing well suited for the season.
You should provide your child with:
- An extra set of clothing (top, bottoms, underpants and socks);
- indoor shoes;
- seasonal outdoor footwear (shoes, rubber boots or winter boots); and
- seasonal outerwear (sweater, winter coat, snow pants, splash pants, sun hat, toque, mittens).
In the warmer months, you will also need to provide sunscreen for your child.
If your child’s clothes get dirty, they will be sent home for laundering.
You should label the belongings you send to daycare with your child.
Supervision
Child staff ratios are maintained according to the Alberta Child Care Act at all times. Ratios are calculated to find out how many children each staff member will have at any given time during the day. The following is a chart of ratios for different age groups:
Age Group Ratio
0 -13 months 1:3
13 -18 months 1:4
19 months – 3 years 1:6
3 years – 4.5 years 1:8
4.5 years – 6 years 1:10
Parental Involvement
We encourage and welcome parental involvement in the daycare. Our caregivers ensure frequent, friendly and positive verbal communication with parents. Parents and caregivers work together to share their knowledge and input for the child.
The daycare plans and organizes special events for parents, such as Mother’s and Father’s Days tea, Christmas Party etc. We also have an open door policy and invite parents to visit the centre at any time. Parents are encouraged to participate in all activities including field trips.
