Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Child Care Partner in Nanaimo, BC
We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing quality child care services rooted in a philosophy that recognizes each child as an individual. Established in 1974, our programs foster holistic growth and development through play-based learning, tailored to meet the unique needs of children and families in our community. Our team of qualified Early Childhood Educators and Special Needs Educators brings decades of combined experience, ensuring a nurturing environment that prioritizes safety, creativity, and educational enrichment. We actively engage parents and volunteers in decision-making and program support, reflecting our commitment to community collaboration. Our programs include structured activities such as art, music, drama, and outdoor play, designed to stimulate cognitive, social, and emotional development.With locations serving Nanaimo, British Columbia, we maintain transparent communication and flexible participation opportunities for families, including orientations, field trips, and volunteer roles. Our long-standing reputation as a trusted child care provider is built on consistent adherence to high standards, continuous staff training, and partnerships with educational institutions like Vancouver Island University. We remain dedicated to evolving our services to meet contemporary child development needs while preserving the core values that have guided us for nearly five decades.
Services
Child Care
Preschool
Out of School Care
Play-based Learning
Parent Participation Programs
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of experience in early childhood education since 1974
- Our staff includes certified Early Childhood Educators with specialized training
- We maintain a proven play-based curriculum supporting holistic child development
- Our nonprofit status ensures community-focused programming and transparent operations
- We offer flexible parent participation opportunities and volunteer engagement
Services
Child Care
Our licensed child care program serves children aged 3-5 years with qualified Early Childhood Educators. We provide a structured environment combining play-based learning with developmental activities. Our open-door policy ensures flexible enrollment while maintaining consistent care standards.
Preschool
Preschool programs operate September to June with sessions 2-5 days weekly. Our curriculum focuses on foundational skills through art, music, and social play. Qualified educators implement gradual entry processes to ease transitions for new students.
Out of School Care
Before and after school care accommodates children aged 5-12 with transportation support from Fairview School. Summer camps and holiday programs operate based on community needs, maintaining continuity in care outside regular school hours.
Play-based Learning
Our core educational approach integrates play as primary learning vehicle. Activities include art projects, music sessions, drama exercises, and outdoor exploration. This methodology supports cognitive, social, and motor skill development through experiential learning.
Parent Participation Programs
We encourage parental involvement through volunteer opportunities, board membership, and classroom assistance. Orientation sessions and observation periods help families understand our programs. Regular meetings and work parties strengthen community connections while supporting program development.
People
Tina Fradin
Child Care Centre Manager
Early Childhood Educator and Special Needs Educator with 34 years of experience since 1990. Oversees daily operations and program implementation at the main child care center.
Donna Biglete
Preschool/Out-of-School-Care Manager
Early Childhood Educator since 2023 with responsibility for preschool and after-school programs. Coordinates curriculum delivery and staff supervision across multiple locations.
Sherry Jones
Early Childhood Educator
Certified educator with 30 years of experience since 1994. Specializes in creating inclusive learning environments that accommodate diverse developmental needs within structured programs.
Renee Unger
Early Childhood Educator
Experienced educator since 2009 with expertise in after-school care programming. Focuses on transitional activities that bridge school learning with home environments through structured play sessions.
Kathy Griswold
Early Childhood Educator
Dedicated educator since 1995 with extensive experience in implementing play-based curricula. Specializes in animal care activities and outdoor learning components within child development programs.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 3-5 years in our child care and preschool programs, and 5-12 years in our after-school care services.
Are meals provided?
We provide morning snacks but children bring their own nutritious packed lunches and afternoon snacks to meet individual dietary needs.
How do I register my child?
Registration for preschool occurs April-June with additional openings available in September. After-school care accepts registrations year-round through our website.
Do you offer summer programs?
Summer camps operate based on community demand with flexible scheduling options for working parents during school breaks.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff are certified Early Childhood Educators with specialized training in child development and safety protocols.
Can parents get involved?
We actively encourage parent participation through volunteer opportunities, board membership, classroom assistance, and regular family engagement events.
