Welcome StrongStart families!
StrongStart is a free play based early learning program for parents/caregivers to attend with their children aged 0 to 5 years of age (prior to entry into kindergarten).
StrongStart runs from September to June annually. Please check the website below for exact start/end dates and closures.
If you are a returning StrongStart family, then feel free to drop-in on days that work for you. Please check with your individual StrongStart for further information in regard to events or if booking spots is available.
StrongStart Centres are open: Monday – Friday 8:45 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Please visit our District StrongStart website to receive up-to-date information on centre closures and news:
Our StrongStart Facilitator is Nicole Keirstead
If you are new to the StrongStart program please register online here
Choose "SS" (StrongStart) from the bottom of the list when asked to select grade level.
Once registered for the StrongStart program, you will be asked by the school office for one of the following documents:
- Canadian Birth Certificate
- Canadian Passport
- Indigenous Status Card
- Certificate of Canadian Citizenship
Once registration is complete and you have been notified, you are invited to drop-in at the StrongStart Centre you've registered for.
The Centres are open on a first-come, first-serve basis. (Some of our StrongStarts have a hybrid on-line registration and drop-in for greater accessibility to families).
StrongStart BC Information for Parents and Guardians
Use these suggestions to get the most out of your experience in a StrongStart BC program:
- Introduce yourself to the StrongStart BC facilitator and help your child introduce themselves.
- Sign in and out every day that you attend.
- Allow your child to observe an activity or group experience before participating.
- Help your child learn by experience – teach them to help themselves, interact with others independently and create using their own ideas. Only offer assistance or instruction when necessary, like when your child uses something for the first time or needs help resolving a conflict.
- Offer to write down your child’s words to describe the pictures they create.
- Ask your child open-ended questions about their experiences.
- Acknowledge your child’s effort and offer encouragement frequently – especially after a disappointment.
- Relax, learn and have fun with your child and other families.
StrongStart Program Brochure: StrongStart Information Brochure.pdf
More information about our Early Learning Programs can be found under Programs and Services on the School or District website. https://www.sd23.bc.ca/early-learning-el