Frequently Asked Questions

A child-led program means that educators thoughtfully observe the children and design experiences based on their emerging interests, questions, and ideas. This approach supports deeper engagement and more meaningful learning.

There’s a common misconception that child-led means “no structure,” but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, children thrive with clear, consistent routines. Within that framework, we allow room for curiosity, exploration, and creativity to guide our days.

Our educators come alongside children to support their social and emotional growth, helping them learn how to navigate relationships, express themselves, and care for others. We model empathy, cooperation, and responsibility, for each other, for the environment, and for the materials we share. It's a balance of freedom and guidance, where children feel safe, seen, and supported.

Our preschool program is a four-hour, outdoor-based program located at East Kensington Elementary School, 2795 184th Street, Surrey.

Our daycare is located at our Elgin Corners site at 14016 32nd Avenue, Surrey.

Our after-school care program also takes place at East Kensington Elementary School. Please note: We only offer after-school care to children who attend East Kensington. We do not provide pickup or drop-off from other schools.

• Our Elgin Corners child care program is open to children aged 30 months to 5 years.

• Our preschool program at East Kensington is also for children aged 30 months to 5 years.

• At our Elgin Corners child care location, children do not need to be potty trained.

• At our East Kensington preschool program, children should be generally potty trained or developmentally on their way, as the program is held primarily outdoors and we do not have on-site facilities for diapering. We understand that occasional accidents happen and will always support children with care and understanding.

Children are welcome to nap, but napping is not required. We understand that children have different sleep needs and that some families may be phasing out naps. While some children rest indoors, others who no longer nap enjoy time outdoors with educators, engaging in calm, enriching activities.

Families are responsible for providing all food for their children. Most families pack a variety of snacks and a nutritious lunch to support their child’s needs throughout the day.

From time to time, we may prepare something together as part of a learning experience or enjoy food we’ve grown in our garden — but children should arrive each day with enough food for the full day.

We kindly ask that families pack a balanced lunch, including protein-rich foods, and aim to limit sugary items. Juice and sweetened drinks should stay at home, and each child should bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

We are able to heat up lunch items in the microwave if needed. However, please include an ice pack in your child’s lunch box, as we do not have refrigerator space to store all lunches.

Please note: If there is a child enrolled in the program with a life-threatening allergy, we will notify families and adjust food guidelines accordingly to ensure the safety of all children. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.

All of our educators hold a valid Early Childhood Education (ECE) or ECE Assistant (ECEA) license issued by the Province of British Columbia. In addition to their formal training, each educator:

• Holds a current First Aid certificate

• Has completed a Criminal Record Check

• Provides professional references

We take great pride in the experience, care, and commitment of our team. Families can feel confident knowing their children are in safe, capable, and nurturing hands.

We understand why this is such an important question. Strong relationships with consistent, caring adults are essential for children to feel safe, seen, and supported. They also bring peace of mind to families.

While life events occasionally lead to changes in staffing, our team has remained remarkably steady. Our manager, Ms. Ginny, and Ms. Dhanya have been with us since the day we opened, and other team members have been with us for one to two years, which, in the field of early childhood education, reflects a solid and committed team.

We work hard to create a supportive, respectful environment for both children and educators, and we’re proud of the warm, consistent care our staff provide every day.