Preschoolers in New Westminster are being given a chance to learn and play in the best possible place: outdoors.
The New Westminster school district is launching a new StrongStart: Explore Outdoors program for families with kids who haven’t yet started kindergarten.
StrongStart Early Learning Centres are free, drop-in programs for preschool-aged children (from infancy to age five) and their parents or caregivers. Early childhood educators are on hand to lead activities such as storytime, music and art – all of which is designed to introduce small children to learning through play.
The program currently runs at three district schools: Skwo:wech Elementary, Connaught Heights Elementary and Queensborough Middle School.
Now SD40 is adding a new location: outside at Hume Park.
“There are many benefits to getting outdoors to play. Children have opportunities to develop physical literacy skills and participate in heart-pumping physical activity,” said a school district notice. “Outdoor spaces allow children greater freedom and a chance to face different challenges, which builds their resilience, independent and self-confidence.”
The program will run every Monday from April 4 to June 20, from 10 a.m. to noon. There’s no session on Easter Monday (April 18) or Victoria Day (May 23). For the outdoor program, you don’t need to sign up for a spot; just show up.
Note that it’s taking place in the children’s playground area of the park (not at the Hume Park learning centre).
You’ll also need to register with the district’s StrongStart programs if you haven’t already done so. You can either complete a registration form when you attend your first session, or fill one out ahead of time and bring it with you.
StrongStart programs expanded in New West
The school district is also expanding its three existing indoor StrongStart programs by increasing hours and raising the capacity from six to 12 families at a time. The programs run Monday to Friday at all three sites – from 9 to 11 a.m. at Connaught Heights and Queensborough, and from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m. at Skwo:wech.
A new We Are Going to Kindergarten program, which has been up and running in Queensborough, will also be starting at Skwo:wech and Connaught following spring break.
You can find all the details and sign up for a spot (up to 14 days in advance) at the school district’s website.
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