The first few years of a child's life are critical in terms of development.
With that in mind, Lethbridge School Division's Board of Trustees, as part of the 2024/2025 Operating Budget, supported the introduction of a KinderCare pilot program.
Research indicates early learners benefit greatly from accessing day-long, play-based programming, and for this year the Division created two pilot KinderCare programs, at Senator Buchanan Elementary and Nicholas Sheran Elementary School, respectively.
"The Board believes that investment in early learning is fundamental to student success," said Board Chair Christine Light. "Data supports all learners to be benefactors of early learning opportunities, inclusive of all learning needs. Current research shows that if students are not on track by the end of first grade, it is very difficult to catch them up."
KinderCare gives students the opportunity to participate in a full day of programming, rather than the traditional half day. Eligible students are able to access transportation and, in many cases, can ride the bus with their older siblings.
"We have seen and heard that mid-day pick-ups and drop-offs are challenging for many to navigate," said Light. "The KinderCare schedule is congruent to that of working parents, guardians and older siblings, presenting fewer transitions, and helps children build a strong foundation of literacy and numeracy skills. KinderCare affords families a real choice regarding their child's education and restores the ability of parents to select learning opportunities that are best aligned with their child's needs, and family's goals or preferences regarding school and care before Grade 1."
The goal is to eliminate some of barriers families may have with half-day programming, by offering a lower-cost alternative to day care. Highly qualified staff put student development at the forefront, as youngsters also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in their school community.
"KinderCare supports the other half day of a Kindergarten student's learning experience," said Morag Asquith, the Division's Association Superintendent of Instructional Services. "It provides increased opportunities for children to engage in purposeful, play-based activities with peers." Nurturing and inclusive environments are key to the program, as KinderCare staff also excel in supporting children's thinking, self-regulation and problem-solving skills, all while nurturing language development and social-emotional growth.
Observations of children in KinderCare show strong relationships and a sense of belonging to the school community, with refined interpersonal skills, as they learn to communicate and solve problems collaboratively. The safe and supportive environment allows children to take risks, learn through exploration, share their learning with confidence and respect each child's uniqueness.
KinderCare has been a hit at Nicholas Sheran, according to principal Aaron Fitchett, who added the first year of the pilot has been extremely beneficial to young learners.
"Our experiences with KinderCare programming at Nicholas Sheran has shown us that supporting students in a regulated, full-day complement of play-based learning in school is leading to positive outcomes for fostering relationships, routine-building in advance of Grade 1 and overall comfort within the school environment," said Fitchett.
The high-quality, play-based learning environment enhances children's strong foundation for lifelong learning, often seeing children take the initiative to practice or explore concepts or skills learned in Kindergarten. Additionally, KinderCare staff maintain open communication with Kindergarten teachers, creating a seamless support system for each child.
At Senator Buchanan, students who attend full-day school gain valuable opportunities to develop skills, build stamina and establish routines that make the transition to Grade 1 smooth and effortless.
"Our KinderCare program is play-based, with a strong focus on Literacy and Numeracy," said Senator Buchanan principal Lenee Fyfe. "Through play, students further develop their foundational skills. The KinderCare program staff collaborates closely with our Kindergarten team to share insights and ideas, ensuring a coordinated approach to learning and program planning for students with diverse learning needs. Together, this team works to ensure the success of each student."
The Division is now seeking expressions of interest from parents of Kindergarten-aged students for 2025/2026 at these schools. The number of spots available at the two school sites will be based on the budget allocated from Alberta Education, along with the level of interest from parents.
"We are hopeful to continue to be able to offer KinderCare into the future as we balance sustainability and resources with what is best for early learning in the Division," said Asquith.
