Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Child Care Services in Dartmouth, NS
Established in 1974, Dartmouth Day Care Centre has been a trusted provider of quality childcare in East and Central Dartmouth for over 45 years. As a not-for-profit organization governed by a volunteer board, we serve more than 60 families through inclusive, developmentally appropriate programs for toddlers and preschoolers. Our mission centers on creating a nurturing environment where children thrive through holistic early childhood education aligned with Nova Scotia's curriculum framework. With two locations and a team of qualified educators, we prioritize cultural respect, diversity, and family partnerships to support each child's unique potential.Our flexible daily routines balance child-led exploration with educator-supported learning, fostering well-being, communication, and social responsibility. We maintain strict adherence to provincial regulations while continuously evolving our practices to meet changing community needs. Our board of directors includes parent and community representatives, ensuring our programs remain responsive to local families. Celebrating 50 years of service in 2024, we remain committed to providing safe, stimulating environments where children develop foundational life skills through play-based learning.
Services
Toddler Program
Preschool Program
Inclusive Care
Nutritional Meals
Summer Programs
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- 50 years of experience serving Dartmouth families since 1974
- Licensed programs following Nova Scotia's Early Learning Curriculum Framework
- Inclusive care for children with diverse needs and abilities
- Nutritious, scratch-made meals meeting provincial nutrition guidelines
- Community-based board with parent and professional representation
Services
Toddler Program
Our toddler program serves children aged 18 months to 3 years with structured routines balancing free play and guided activities. Daily schedules include outdoor time, circle activities, and rest periods in a safe, stimulating environment. Educators implement developmentally appropriate practices to support emerging skills in communication, motor development, and social interaction.
Preschool Program
Designed for 3-5 year olds, this program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning. Children engage in investigative play, literacy activities, and social skill development while following Nova Scotia's curriculum framework. The flexible schedule includes outdoor exploration, group learning sessions, and quiet rest periods tailored to individual needs.
Inclusive Care
We provide inclusive programming for children with diverse abilities through individualized support and environmental adaptations. Our trained staff implement positive behavior guidance strategies while maintaining accessibility in both indoor and outdoor learning spaces. This approach ensures all children participate fully in developmentally appropriate activities.
Nutritional Meals
Daily meals and snacks are prepared on-site following Nova Scotia nutrition guidelines. Menus include whole milk, fresh produce, and balanced meals accommodating dietary restrictions. Food experiences incorporate cultural diversity while teaching healthy eating habits through child-led exploration and educator-supported learning activities.
Summer Programs
Extended care options available during summer months with specialized programming. Activities include enhanced outdoor play, water-based exploration, and seasonal learning experiences while maintaining core curriculum principles. The program maintains consistent staffing and ratios for children aged 18 months to school age.
People
Angela Daniels-Drummond
Executive Director
With over 20 years in early childhood education, Angela leads our team with expertise in curriculum development and inclusive practices. She holds a degree in Child Study and extensive certifications in early learning leadership.
Catherine-Laura Dunnington
Board Chair
Catherine brings corporate governance experience to our board, having served in leadership roles with local non-profits. Her strategic vision helps maintain our financial sustainability while expanding community access to quality childcare.
Anna Warren
Community Representative
As a certified Early Childhood Educator with 15+ years in inclusive programming, Anna contributes practical insights on classroom operations and special needs support strategies.
Ali Buchan
Community Representative
Ali's background in child psychology informs our behavioral guidance policies. She specializes in creating trauma-informed environments that promote emotional regulation and positive social interactions.
Maria Maycock
Community Representative
Maria's expertise in nutrition and family engagement shapes our meal programs and parent partnership initiatives. She holds certifications in both early childhood education and dietary management.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We provide care for toddlers aged 18 months to 3 years and preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we offer nutritious, scratch-made meals and snacks daily that follow Nova Scotia nutrition guidelines.
Do you offer summer care?
Yes, we have extended summer programs with specialized activities while maintaining regular care standards.
How do you support special needs children?
Our inclusive programs feature individualized support, environmental adaptations, and trained staff for diverse needs.
What are your operating hours?
We operate Monday-Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM with flexible arrival/departure times.
How can parents get involved?
Parents can join our board, share cultural traditions, or participate in classroom activities through scheduled opportunities.
