The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence is more than just a daycare—it’s a nurturing space where young children thrive, and future educators are trained to excel. Located in the heart of the St. Lawrence community, this centre stands out among daycare centres in St. Lawrence for its commitment to providing top-quality care, engaging learning environments, and hands-on training opportunities for students in George Brown’s Early Childhood Education programs. With dedicated, professionally trained staff, the centre offers families peace of mind and children a joyful, safe place to learn and grow. As one of the few childcare centres in St. Lawrence affiliated with a major educational institution, it ensures both innovative programming and meaningful community connections. Discover why families and educators alike choose the George Brown College Childcare Centre – St. Lawrence as a trusted, enriching hub for childcare and education.
History & Background
The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence was established as part of George Brown College’s initiative to provide high-quality early learning environments while supporting hands-on training for students in the Early Childhood Education program. As a key member of George Brown College’s network of childcare centres, the St. Lawrence location exemplifies the college’s commitment to providing lab school settings where students can apply their academic learning in real-world settings. Over the years, the centre has evolved to serve both the educational needs of students and the childcare needs of families in the St. Lawrence community. This dual purpose makes it one of the most respected daycare centres in St. Lawrence, offering not only essential childcare services but also an innovative, practical learning environment for future educators.
Programs & Services Offered
The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence offers a range of programs and services tailored to meet the needs of families in the community. The centre accommodates children from infancy through preschool, with age groups typically ranging from 6 weeks to 5 years. This variety makes it one of the most comprehensive daycare centres in St. Lawrence, able to support early development across key growth stages.
Operating hours are from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, ensuring families have reliable care options throughout the workweek. Meals are provided by carefully selected catering services that follow high standards for nutrition, supporting children’s health and dietary needs.
The centre offers full-time and part-time enrollment options, as well as specialized programs like before-and-after school care. These services make it a trusted provider of childcare in St. Lawrence for families seeking flexible, quality care for their children.
Lab School for George Brown College Early Childhood Education Students
The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence plays an essential role as a lab school, offering hands-on training for students enrolled in George Brown College’s Early Childhood Education program. As a lab school, it provides a real-world environment where students gain practical experience working directly with young children, under the guidance of experienced educators. This setting allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in early childhood development, while honing critical skills in communication, observation, and curriculum implementation.
The lab school environment is vital for supporting students’ growth as future educators, enabling them to develop effective teaching strategies and understand the diverse needs of children. The presence of college students also enhances the learning experience for enrolled children, creating a dynamic, engaging environment that distinguishes this centre among other daycare centres in St. Lawrence.
Special Features and Unique Aspects
The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence offers several unique features that set it apart from other daycare centres in St. Lawrence. Designed to support an enriching experience for young children, the centre includes well-equipped indoor and outdoor play spaces, fostering both physical activity and social development. Specialized learning areas within the centre provide opportunities for children to explore, discover, and learn through play, guided by trained early childhood educators.
In addition to its dedicated childcare services, the centre collaborates with various departments at George Brown College, enhancing learning opportunities for both children and students. This integration allows the centre to serve as a model for early education while maintaining a strong commitment to quality and safety standards in childcare in St. Lawrence.
Enrollment and Admission Process
The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence follows a structured enrollment process designed to meet the needs of families within the community. Priority for admission is given to siblings of current enrollees, children of George Brown College employees, and students, ensuring that families connected to the college receive accessible childcare in St. Lawrence.
Interested families are encouraged to apply early, as space availability can vary, and there is often a waiting list due to the centre’s popularity among daycare centres in St. Lawrence. Admission requirements typically include submitting an application form and providing details about the child’s age to maintain a balanced mix of age groups within the centre. Families can contact the centre directly for more information on current availability and to join the waiting list if necessary.
Fees and Financial Assistance
The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence offers competitive daily fees, structured by age group to meet the needs of families in the community. The current fee schedule includes daily rates for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. These fees cover all services provided by the centre, including care, educational activities, and meals, making it a comprehensive option among daycare centres in St. Lawrence.
The centre participates in the Canada Wide Early Learning Child Care (CWELCC) Funding program, which significantly reduces the cost of childcare for eligible families. Through this program, families with children under the age of 6 can receive reduced rates, with the program aiming to reach an average of $10 per day by 2025-2026.
Additionally, families seeking daycare in St. Lawrence may apply for financial assistance or subsidies through Toronto Children’s Services. For more details on current fees and subsidy options, families are encouraged to contact the centre directly.
Health, Safety, and Policies
The George Brown College Childcare Centre in St. Lawrence upholds rigorous health and safety protocols to ensure a safe environment for all children. Sanitation practices are strictly followed, with regular cleaning and disinfection of play areas, classrooms, and common spaces to maintain high standards of hygiene.
The centre has clear policies in place to address child protection, including child abuse prevention and conflict resolution measures. Staff members are trained to recognize signs of distress and are required to follow strict reporting protocols, ensuring every child’s welfare. Additionally, a comprehensive policy on handling illnesses and infections is implemented, including guidelines for isolating unwell children and notifying families when necessary. These policies make the centre a trusted choice among daycare centres in St. Lawrence for families seeking secure, high-quality childcare.
FAQs
- What programs does the childcare centre offer?
The centre offers full-time, part-time, and before-and-after school care. - Does the centre provide meals for children?
Yes, meals are provided by a catering service that follows nutritional guidelines. - Does the centre participate in the CWELCC funding program?
Yes, eligible families benefit from the Canada Wide Early Learning Child Care (CWELCC) funding program. - Is there a waiting list for enrollment?
Yes, due to high demand, a waiting list may apply. Contact the centre for details. - How does the centre support George Brown College students?
The centre serves as a lab school, allowing Early Childhood Education students to gain hands-on training. - Is financial assistance available for childcare fees?
Financial assistance and subsidies are available through Toronto Children’s Services.