Business Details
41 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare & Educational Programs in Ottawa
Founded in 1985, our centre has been a trusted leader in early childhood education for over three decades. Our enhanced curriculum exceeds provincial standards, incorporating innovative programs like Letters Without Tears and indoor/outdoor science activities. As a non-profit organization funded by the City of Ottawa and Ontario Ministry of Education, we maintain a 35-year legacy of excellence. Our team of 26 dedicated professionals delivers age-specific programming for 95 children annually, fostering holistic development through play-based learning. Governed by a parent-community board, we partner with Algonquin College and La Cit Collegiale for student placements.Our custom-designed facility in Taylor Creek Business Park offers six developmental programs, from infants to senior kindergarten. With multilingual staff and specialized training in early childhood education, we create safe, nurturing environments where children thrive. Our personalized workbooks track individual progress, ensuring each child reaches their full potential. Recognized as a cornerstone of Ottawa-Carleton's academic community, we combine experience, expertise, and compassion to make learning joyful and enduring.
Services
Infant Program
Toddler Program
Preschool Program
Kindergarten Program
Full-Day Options
Part-Time Programs
After-School Services
Educational Workbooks
Science Activities
Child Development Tracking
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer an enhanced curriculum exceeding provincial educational standards
- Our 35-year legacy demonstrates proven expertise in early childhood development
- Licensed for 95 children with six specialized age-specific programs
- Experienced team includes 26 permanent staff with early childhood education credentials
- Recognized partner of Algonquin College and La Cit Collegiale for student placements
Services
Infant Program
Specialized care for infants aged 0-18 months focuses on sensory development and foundational learning through play. Our nurturing environment supports motor skill development and social interaction. Certified educators use age-appropriate activities to stimulate cognitive growth while maintaining strict safety protocols.
Toddler Program
Designed for 18-month to 2-year-olds, this program emphasizes language development and social skills through structured play and creative activities. Educators implement curriculum that encourages independence while addressing individual developmental needs in a secure environment.
Preschool Program
Three and four-year-olds engage in curriculum blending academic preparation with creative exploration. Our program develops literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills through science activities, yoga, and personalized workbooks that track progress toward kindergarten readiness.
Kindergarten Program
Full-day kindergarten program follows provincial standards while offering enhanced learning opportunities. Certified educators provide individualized instruction in literacy, mathematics, and social studies through interactive projects and outdoor education experiences.
After-School Services
Supervised programs before and after regular school hours include homework support, recreational activities, and structured learning experiences. Our staff assists with transportation logistics and provides nutritious snacks in a safe, engaging environment.
People
Elsa Roman
Founder
Co-founder of The Little School since 1985 with extensive experience in early childhood education program development and non-profit management.
Enrique Roman
Founder
Established The Little School in 1985, contributing to its growth from a 16-child facility to a licensed 95-child centre serving Ottawa families.
Laurel Boutet
Supervisor
Supervisor since 2019 with over 30 years in childcare, holding a Bachelor's degree in Human Ecology and extensive leadership experience in early childhood education.
Robyn
Assistant Supervisor
Joined TLS in 2022 with prior experience in Ottawa Catholic School Board programs, bringing expertise in special needs education and childcare administration.
Katia
Administrator
Business Administration graduate managing administrative operations since 2018, coordinating programs and parent communications in multiple languages.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We offer six programs for children aged 0 months to 5 years: Infants, Junior Toddlers, Senior Toddlers, Junior Preschoolers, Senior Preschoolers, and Kindergarten.
Are you currently accepting new enrollments?
Our waitlist is currently closed and we are not accepting new applications until further notice.
What educational programs do you offer?
Our enhanced curriculum includes Letters Without Tears, indoor/outdoor science programs, yoga for children, and personalized workbooks tracking each child's progress.
What are your operating hours?
We operate Monday-Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed only during Christmas week and statutory holidays.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff undergo criminal reference checks. Our educators include Early Childhood Education graduates, Registered Early Childhood Educators, and specialists with decades of experience.
Are you a licensed facility?
Yes, we are a licensed childcare centre with capacity for 95 children, operating since 1985 under strict safety and educational standards.
