Family Info

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All the work we do is rooted in these core values. They help us align what we do inside our centre and behind the scenes, and guide our decision-making. 

1. Relationships

Relationships are the foundation on which our organization operates. We believe the quality of the experiences we provide is measured by the quality of the relationships with children, families, employees, volunteers, legislators, and community stakeholders. We strive to ensure these relationships are respectful; warm and compassionate; accepting and open; and fair and equitable. 

2. Communication

We are committed to conversations that are cooperative and collaborative. We will be respectful of all points of view and strive for honest and natural relationships that help us build each other up. We will give information and feedback in a timely manner, and expect the same in others. 

3. Lifelong Learning

We believe that we all share a responsibility to support and nurture the children’s and our own natural desire to be lifelong learners. We foster our lifelong learning through our professional and personal growth, and by exploring and experiencing learning on the same level as the children. We celebrate our differences and model respectful, inclusive practices. 

4. Fiscal and Corporate Accountability

We are committed to being fiscally responsible; to make decisions based on the needs and goals of the organization both short, medium and long term. We conduct ourselves and our business in a manner that is legal, moral and ethical. 

At Through the Years we strive to provide an environment that is free from bias and prejudice and that is a safe, nurturing space where children can learn principles of fairness and respect for all. 

Strategies 

•Educators will work collaboratively with families to provide care that meets the child’s individual needs to the best of our ability. 

•Educators will share their own valued cultural practices and traditions to create new and shared connections with families. •Resources will be provided to all educators that celebrate the diversities within family’s lifestyles and cultural heritages. 

•Children with special needs will be provided with support to ensure accessibility in the program by working in collaboration with the child’s supports as required (O.T., P.T., Speech and Language, EIBI, Mental Health, etc.) 

•The centre will access additional support, assistance and resources for children with additional needs. 

•Educators will be encouraged to attend professional development that builds awareness of many diverse social topics such as sexual orientation languages, race, religion and culture. 

•As inclusive practices require continuous evaluation, staff will familiarize themselves with The Inclusion Principles Scale to guide them in their everyday practices. 

•Educators will treat all children equitably and respectfully and encourage children to treat others in the same manner.

•Children will never be singled out, or made to feel inferior to or superior to their peers. 

•Educators will be fully oriented and trained to understand and apply the centre’s Behavioral Guidance Policy.  

Through the Years Early Learning Centre is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors made up of community members and parents who oversee the Day Care & Community Centre programs and staff.  Any parent interested in sitting on our Board is welcome to speak to the Director about the responsibility.  An Annual General Meeting for the organization is held every fall in which parents are strongly encouraged to attend. 

Several other parent meetings and social events are held throughout the year.  

Current Board Members

Louisa Benedicto - Chair

Jenny Jeffrey - Vice-Chair

Allison Barss- Secretary

Shawn Shearer - Treasurer

Janene McIsaac

Leah Noonan

Gina Burke

Katie Morash

Christine Dunsworth

Amanda Cotton

Nova Scotia's Child Care Subsidy Program helps eligible families, with children 12 years and under, pay for a portion of child care fees at licensed child care facilities and regulated family home day care agencies.  Subsidies are paid directly to the centre or agency of your choice, on your behalf.  If you choose to transfer your child to another child care centre or family home day care agency, within the province, your subsidy will go with you.  Eligibility is based on your family's income and finances.

For more information click the link below.

"I have 2 children with autism and the day care is always willing to work with the therapists and others to make sure my children succeed.  I can see the difference in my children after attending Through the Years and it's a wonderful change.  They are like part of the family."  

            Candice Goodridge, mother of 2

"The amazing thing about Through the Years is the inclusion elements to support the children to enjoy every activity - adapted chairs, lifts, wheelchair, hippocampe, large stroller."

                              Visiting Educator

"The quiet spaces are very cozy and reflect the need for children to be alone, relax or rest is valued.  Having a stuffy in each sofa / chair also helps make these spaces inviting for the children.  Much nature is used throughout the centre for decor and ambiance. 

                               Visiting Educator

"I am impressed by the centre's pet, Miss Bunny.  Having a pet and allowing the children to interact and care for it helps develop sense of responsibility and empathy.  It also teaches children to respect life."

                                 Visiting Educator

"Amazing environment!  Great staff that care.  Am so glad I was able to work with them all as a summer student."

                          2014 Summer Student

                          Chelsea A.