Business Details
35 Years
experience
Licensed Toddler & Preschool Centre in Niagara Falls
Established in 1991, Tots-n-Tikes is a licensed toddler and preschool centre dedicated to fostering holistic child development through structured, individualized programs. Our facility, located in Niagara Falls, is licensed by the Ministry of Education and features a secure environment with certified staff maintaining optimal teacher-student ratios. We prioritize nutritional excellence through home-cooked meals aligned with the Canadian Food Guide, prepared on-site by a certified cook. Our philosophy emphasizes nurturing a child's sense of belonging while equipping them with foundational skills for lifelong success. With decades of experience, our team implements evidence-based practices like the CATCH program to promote physical literacy, healthy habits, and cognitive growth. Daily programs for toddlers (18 months-30 months) and preschoolers (2.5-4 years) maintain ratios of 1:5 and 1:8 respectively.Staff undergo rigorous training in early childhood education, first aid, and specialized curricula to ensure comprehensive care. We actively engage families through educational resources and communication tools to extend learning beyond the classroom. Our commitment to quality has made us a trusted childcare provider in the Niagara Region for over 30 years.
Services
Toddler Programs
Preschool Programs
Nutrition Services
Physical Development
Family Engagement
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- Licensed by the Ministry of Education with 30+ years of childcare expertise
- Certified educators maintain optimal 1:5 toddler and 1:8 preschool ratios
- On-site cook prepares nutritious Canadian Food Guide-compliant meals daily
- CATCH program certified staff promoting healthy lifestyle development
- Structured curriculum balancing academic preparation and social-emotional growth
Services
Toddler Programs
Structured daily programs for 18-month to 30-month-olds with certified educators maintaining a 1:5 teacher-student ratio. Curriculum focuses on sensory exploration, motor skill development, and socialization through play-based learning. Includes three nutritious meals and snacks prepared on-site by a certified cook.
Preschool Programs
Developmental programs for 2.5 to 4-year-olds with 1:8 teacher-student ratios. Combines academic readiness skills with creative expression through arts, music, and structured play. Implements the CATCH program to foster physical literacy and healthy habits in preparation for formal schooling.
Nutrition Services
Daily home-cooked meals following Canadian Food Guide requirements, prepared on-site by a certified cook. Menu planning incorporates seasonal produce and balanced nutrition to support children's growth and development. Special dietary needs accommodated with parental consultation.
Physical Development
CATCH program-certified physical activity curriculum promoting motor skills and healthy lifestyle habits. Includes structured indoor/outdoor play, gardening activities, and music-based movement programs. Educates children on nutrition and physical wellness through interactive learning.
Family Engagement
Comprehensive family support through educational resources, parenting tip sheets, and regular communication channels. Program extends learning to home environments with activity suggestions and developmental guidance. Hosts parent-teacher conferences to discuss child progress and individual needs.
People
Shannon Baker
Owner/Operator
Registered Early Childhood Educator with 30+ years experience in childcare leadership. Oversees program implementation and staff training at Tots-n-Tikes since its founding in 1991.
Shelley Wiegand
Owner/Operator
Certified ECE professional managing daily operations and curriculum development. Implements quality assurance protocols to maintain Ministry of Education licensing standards.
Tessie Fischer
Program Staff
Experienced childcare provider supporting program delivery across all age groups. Trained in CATCH program implementation and emergency response protocols.
Veronica King
Program Staff
Registered ECE specialist focusing on toddler development and social-emotional learning. Creates individualized activity plans to support each child's unique growth trajectory.
Annie Hannif
Program Staff
Certified educator delivering preschool curriculum with emphasis on academic preparation. Coordinates family engagement initiatives and parent communication systems.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We accept children from 18 months up to 4 years old, with separate toddler and preschool programs maintaining optimal teacher-student ratios.
Are meals provided?
Yes, our certified cook prepares three daily meals and snacks following Canadian Food Guide requirements, with accommodations for special dietary needs.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff are certified Early Childhood Educators with Ministry of Education licensing, plus specialized training in the CATCH health program and emergency response.
How do you support child development?
Our curriculum combines Montessori principles with the CATCH program to develop motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social-emotional learning through structured play.
Is there parent involvement?
We provide regular family resources, parenting tips, and parent-teacher conferences to extend learning beyond the classroom environment.
