Introduction
At CDI’s Parkdale-High Park (PHP) EarlyON Child and Family Centre, families with children from 0-6 years old have access to high-quality programs and resources — free of charge. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Education, the centre offers a range of inclusive services aimed at nurturing the well-being and development of both children and their caregivers, where families can:
- Join fun activities such as reading, storytelling, sing-alongs and games
- Get advice from professionals trained in early childhood development
- Learn about other family services in your community
- Connect with other families with young children
Inclusive and Accessible Programs
To ensure the programs are available to as many families as possible, CDI’s EarlyON centre is housed in a fully accessible building and offers flexible programming, including Late-Day and Saturday options.
The centre proudly offers inclusive and equitable programming, where diverse cultures, identities, and abilities are reflected. Unlike traditional childcare services, participation in EarlyON requires families and caregivers to stay, play, and learn with their children, strengthening bonds and creating shared experiences.
The centre’s approach goes beyond educational activities. Through a variety of drop-in programs (for children aged 0-6 years), focused programs (such as Connecting with Baby for children aged 0-12 months), and workshops on topics like post-partum depression, self-care, child development, and family health, CDI’s PHP EarlyON Centre is dedicated to supporting the holistic well-being of both children and their families.
Continuous Improvement and Community Collaboration
Our Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs) and support staff participate in continuous professional development on a variety of topics. The centre is supported by local business partners who offer free services and resources to families within our program space. Additionally, the centre hosts nursing and early childhood education (ECE) student placements, providing reciprocal benefits to both the students and the families they serve.
Regular visits from the Public Health Nurse are another key component of the centre’s support system, helping staff address health-related concerns, offer nutritional advice, and provide referrals for additional services.
Conclusion
At the heart of CDI’s PHP EarlyON Centre is a commitment to supporting children and families at every stage of their early years. With flexible hours, a diverse and inclusive environment, and a range of services designed to foster both child development and family well-being, the centre is truly a resource for families in the community.