HEAD START PROGRAM
WHAT WE DO
Head Start is a drop-in program for parents and their children ages 0 – 6 years old. We offer playgroups, nutritional support and parenting workshops, which all include transportation and childminding as needed.
OUR MISSION
We recognize that children are our most valuable resource. We provide a program rich in family and community based events that focus on our traditional language and culture, literacy, health, nutrition, social skills and fun!
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Head Start staff are aware that parents and guardians are the primary teachers and caregivers of their children. The program educators are here to support and encourage each child’s positive sense of self, and the desire for life long learning. The educators support the parents role in planning, developing and evaluating the Head Start program. Overall, we provide a warm, accepting, and caring environment for both children and their families.
Every child is unique and will be treated with respect and dignity and given recognition and praise for their strengths and abilities. We focus on enhancing self-esteem by helping the children develop self-control and sensitivity toward others. We guide children to understand their own feelings and learn appropriate ways to express them, by teaching problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
WHAT WE DO
Head Start is a drop-in program for parents and their children ages 0 – 4 years old. We offer playgroups, nutritional support and parenting workshops, which all include transportation and childminding as needed.
OUR MISSION
We recognize that children are our most valuable resource. We provide a program rich in family and community based events that focus on our traditional language and culture, literacy, health, nutrition, social skills and fun!
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Head Start staff are aware that parents and guardians are the primary teachers and caregivers of their children. The program educators are here to support and encourage each child’s positive sense of self, and the desire for life long learning. The educators support the parents role in planning, developing and evaluating the Head Start program. Overall, we provide a warm, accepting, and caring environment for both children and their families.
Every child is unique and will be treated with respect and dignity and given recognition and praise for their strengths and abilities. We focus on enhancing self-esteem by helping the children develop self-control and sensitivity toward others. We guide children to understand their own feelings and learn appropriate ways to express them, by teaching problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
OUR PROGRAMS
In addition to the playgroup, we collaborate with a range of expert partners, including dieticians, community health nurses, dental hygienists, and speech and language therapists. These professionals are invited to share their knowledge and resources, offering valuable insights and support tailored to the needs of young children and their families. By participating in The Play Cafe, you gain access to a wealth of information and services that can help nurture your child’s health and development during these critical early years.
The Children’s Oral Health Initiative is supported by the Tsawout Health Department and the First Nation’s Health Authority. This is an early childhood tooth decay prevention program for children aged 0-7, their parents and caregivers and pregnant women. COHI services include annual screening, fluoride varnish applications, sealants and temporary fillings. The Head Start Program also provides transportation to dentist appointments and liaison for dentist appointments. This includes school visits to complete these services and keep them updated on services provided by COHI. We also support non-status children. Visit the First Nations Health Authority for more information regarding this program.
Drop-in parenting workshops are offered in partnership with NILTU,O Child and Family Services. We discuss a variety of topics, create cultural crafts and share meals together. Childminding is provided.
For more information or to register, please contact Michelle Anderson: manderson@niltuo.ca, (250) 544-1400 ext. 222.
The Mother’s Program is a weekly program that provides a veggie bag, prenatal vitamins, milk and eggs that is available until the child is 1 year of age.
HOLIDAYS & HOURS
We are open 10 months of the year from September to June, with a two-month summer closure of July and August. We are closed for two weeks over the Christmas holidays and for two weeks over the Easter and Spring Break holidays as well as all statutory holidays.
The Head Start Program will close on snow days if it is unsafe for staff to drive to work. Please listen to the local news on the radio to find out about school district closures and/or school bus cancellations.
HOLIDAYS & HOURS
We are open 10 months of the year from September to June, with a two-month summer closure of July and August. We are closed for two weeks over the Christmas holidays and for two weeks over the Easter and Spring Break holidays as well as all statutory holidays.
The Head Start Program will close on snow days if it is unsafe for staff to drive to work. Please listen to the local news on the radio to find out about school district closures and/or school bus cancellations.
