Nestled in the heart of Leslieville, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence stands out as a beacon of nurturing early childhood education. With over 40 years of experience, this reputable childcare centre offers a rich blend of play-based learning and individualized care that fosters children’s growth in a safe and supportive environment. Families seeking quality childcare in Leslieville will find a welcoming community that prioritizes inclusivity and diversity. At St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare, children from infants to school-age benefit from engaging programs designed to promote social, emotional, and cognitive development. Join us as we explore what makes this daycare a top choice among daycares in Leslieville and how it has shaped the lives of countless families over the years. Discover why St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare is not just a place for children to learn, but a cherished community hub for families.
History of St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare
St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence was established in 1982, marking the beginning of its commitment to providing quality childcare in the community. The daycare received its first license on June 16, 1982, and has maintained a high compliance level with a remarkable history of inspections, achieving a consistent 99% compliance rating.
Over the years, the daycare has evolved its services to meet the diverse needs of families in Leslieville. Initially catering to preschool-aged children, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare expanded its programs to include infants and toddlers, reflecting the growing demand for comprehensive childcare solutions. The introduction of a school-age program further solidified its role as a vital resource for families seeking reliable childcare options.
The impact of St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare on the local community has been significant. It has become a trusted hub for families, fostering connections among parents while nurturing children’s growth and development. As a participant in the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care system, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare continues to lead the way in providing exceptional care, making it one of the top childcare centres in Leslieville.
Mission and Philosophy
St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence is dedicated to providing a high-quality, nurturing environment that prioritizes the individual needs of each child. The daycare’s mission is to create a child-centered program that fosters holistic development, encouraging children to thrive socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively.
At the core of St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare’s educational philosophy is play-based learning. The staff believes that children learn best through exploration and play, which serves as a foundation for meaningful educational experiences. By providing opportunities for children to engage with various materials and activities, the daycare promotes creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving skills.
Additionally, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare emphasizes inclusivity and diversity within its programs. The daycare honors and respects each child’s background, culture, and experiences, ensuring that all families feel welcome and valued. This commitment to inclusivity not only enriches the learning environment but also prepares children to understand and appreciate the diverse world around them, making St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare a standout choice among childcare centres in Leslieville.
Programs Offered
St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence provides a range of programs designed to meet the developmental needs of children at different stages. Each program is tailored to promote growth, learning, and social interaction in a safe and nurturing environment.
Infant/Toddler Program
This program caters to children aged three months to 2½ years, with a capacity for 20 infants and 20 toddlers. The daycare maintains a low staff-to-child ratio, with three staff members in each infant room, ensuring personalized attention and care. Each child’s individual care plan is developed through close observation and communication with parents, allowing staff to respond effectively to each child’s unique schedule and needs.
Toddler/Preschool Program
Designed for children aged 18 months to 5 years, this program accommodates 44 children in total, including 20 toddlers and 24 preschoolers. The curriculum is rich in areas of learning such as arts and crafts, sensory activities, drama, language development, and cognitive skills. Staff creates weekly program plans based on observations of children’s interests, promoting engagement and exploration. An outdoor program plan is also incorporated to encourage learning in natural settings.
School Age Program
Serving children from 2½ years to 13 years, this program operates year-round and includes before and after school care. The daycare supports up to 48 children in preschool rooms and 58 children in the before and after school program. Care is provided on instructional days from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., ensuring that children are safely escorted to local community schools. On non-instructional days, full-day care is available during PA Days, December Break, March Break, and Summer Break.
Facilities and Environment
St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence is conveniently located in the vibrant Leslieville neighborhood, with multiple centers designed to meet the needs of children at different developmental stages. The facilities are equipped with age-appropriate amenities, including spacious classrooms that promote learning and exploration. Each room is designed to be bright and inviting, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for children and families.
The daycare prioritizes safety, ensuring that all facilities adhere to strict health and safety regulations. This commitment includes secure entry points, child-proofed environments, and regularly maintained equipment. The staff is trained to uphold safety protocols, creating a nurturing environment where children can play, learn, and grow with confidence.
Outdoor play areas are a significant feature of St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare. These spaces are designed to encourage active play and physical development, with equipment that supports various activities such as climbing, sliding, and running. In addition to structured outdoor play, the daycare integrates nature into its curriculum, utilizing outdoor learning spaces for hands-on experiences in science and exploration.
Overall, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare offers a well-rounded environment that promotes healthy development and learning, making it a top choice among childcare centres in Leslieville.
Staff Qualifications
At St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence, the qualifications of educators are a cornerstone of the high-quality care and education provided to children. All full-time Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) at the daycare hold a diploma from an accredited college and are registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE). This ensures that staff members are not only trained in early childhood education but also adhere to the professional standards set by the regulatory body.
Having a qualified team is essential in early childhood education, as it directly impacts the developmental outcomes for children. Educators at St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare are skilled in creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that cater to the diverse needs of each child. Their expertise allows them to foster a nurturing environment where children feel safe and supported, promoting positive social and emotional development.
Continuous professional development is a priority for the staff at St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare. Educators participate in ongoing training and workshops to stay current with best practices in early childhood education. This commitment to professional growth ensures that they can effectively implement the latest educational strategies and approaches, further enhancing the quality of care provided at the daycare.
Parent Involvement
St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence recognizes the vital role that parents play in their children’s development and education. The daycare offers numerous opportunities for family engagement, fostering a collaborative environment where parents feel involved in their child’s learning journey. Families are encouraged to participate in various activities, from special events and workshops to volunteer opportunities within the programs. This active involvement strengthens the bond between parents and staff, creating a supportive community.
Effective communication strategies are fundamental at St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare. Staff members maintain open lines of communication with parents through regular updates, newsletters, and parent-teacher meetings. These interactions ensure that parents are informed about their child’s progress and any upcoming events or changes within the daycare. The team is dedicated to addressing any questions or concerns, fostering a trusting relationship between families and educators.
As a co-operative model, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare empowers parents to take an active role in the decision-making processes related to the daycare’s operations. Parents are encouraged to join the Board of Directors, participate in meetings, and contribute their ideas for program development. This collaborative approach not only enhances the quality of care but also builds a strong sense of community among families, making St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare a preferred choice among daycares in Leslieville.
Unique Features
St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence is distinguished by its strong emphasis on community involvement, which plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of care and education offered.
The daycare is committed to cultural and dietary accommodations, ensuring that all children feel included and respected. St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare provides halal food options, along with vegetarian meals, and maintains a nut-free and pork-free environment. By addressing specific dietary needs, the daycare supports children’s health and well-being while respecting their cultural backgrounds. For parents dropping off their children at St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare, the nearby St. Lawrence Market offers some of the best places to eat, perfect for grabbing a delicious meal.
Additionally, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare boasts a multilingual staff, reflecting the diverse community it serves. Educators speak various languages, including Albanian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, and Ukrainian. This diversity in language offerings not only facilitates effective communication with families but also enriches the children’s learning environment by exposing them to different cultures and perspectives.
These unique features position St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare as a leading option for childcare in Leslieville, ensuring that families find a welcoming and supportive place for their children’s early education.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare – St. Lawrence, families can reach out via phone or email. The primary contact for the Infant/Toddler Centre is Anna Marie Sison, who can be reached at 416-363-9506. For questions related to the School Age Centre, Fil Lacaria is the designated contact at 416-363-9425.
Prospective families are encouraged to contact the daycare for any questions about enrollment, program offerings, or to discuss their specific childcare needs. Email inquiries can be directed to the general address provided on the daycare’s official website.
St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare is conveniently located at 2 Princess Street and 230 The Esplanade in the Leslieville area. These locations are easily accessible for families in the neighborhood. Visiting the daycare provides an excellent opportunity to meet the staff, tour the facilities, and learn more about the programs offered.
For families seeking quality childcare in Leslieville, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare is ready to assist with any inquiries and welcomes visits to experience the environment firsthand.
- Address: 4 Market St., Toronto, ON M5E 1Y9, Canada
- Contact: +1 416-363-5989
- Website
FAQs
- What age groups does St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare serve?
The daycare offers programs for infants as young as three months, toddlers up to 2½ years, preschoolers aged 2½ to 5 years, and school-age children up to 13 years. - What is the staff-to-child ratio in the infant rooms?
The infant program maintains a ratio of one staff member for every three infants, ensuring personalized care. - Are there meal options available for children with dietary restrictions?
Yes, the daycare provides halal, vegetarian, nut-free, and pork-free meal options to accommodate various dietary needs. - How does the daycare involve parents in their child’s education?
Parents are encouraged to participate in activities, volunteer, and communicate regularly with staff to foster a collaborative environment. Finding a place to work out is easier with the best gyms with childcare in Toronto, perfect for balancing fitness and parenting. - Can parents visit the daycare before enrolling their child?
Yes, prospective families are welcome to visit the daycare, meet the staff, and tour the facilities. - What qualifications do the educators at St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare have?
All full-time educators hold a diploma in early childhood education and are registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators. - What safety measures are in place at the daycare?
The daycare adheres to strict health and safety regulations, ensuring secure environments and regular maintenance of facilities. - Are there outdoor play areas for the children?
Yes, St. Lawrence Co-Operative Daycare features outdoor play spaces designed for active play and exploration.