As a parent of a young child there are often many questions you need answered about your child’s development, school readiness and more. It’s also comforting to meet and talk with other parents, share experiences.
Parents in Kimberley have a valuable resource in the Kimberley Early Learning Centre, located in the lower level of the former Blarchmont School building, now the Blarchmont Learning Centre. Here parents can participate with their children in a range of programs and activities, get answers to questions, get information about programs and services that are available for young children and their families, and talk to early years professionals, as well as other parents and caregivers in the community.
“Some programs require pre-registration, while others are drop-in, however all services offered are free,” said Gina Panattoni, Early Years Coordinator at the Centre.
Programs offered include:
Ages and Stages Project - Parents are invited to complete the Ages & Stages Questionnaires, take a look at your child’s development, celebrate your child’s strengths, learn ideas & activities to support next steps, receive help to find resources. Contact: Diana Card, Project Coordinator, Phone: 250-427-0716 or Email: capckimb@shaw.ca
Baby Goose - For parents with babies under 1 year old. Rhymes, songs and stories, guest speakers and baby topic discussions for you and your baby. Childcare provided for older siblings. Thurs 10:30-Noon. Starts Sept. 25.Contact: Public Health Nursing 250-427-2215.
Bellies to Babies – For women or families seeking information, resources, services, support or community referrals during pregnancy & the first six months of parenthood. Group drop-in (supper, child minding and limited transportation) Wednesdays 5:00-7 p.m. Visits in family home or community location provided by appointment. Contact: Pat Chisholm, program coordinator 1-855-589-5011 (Toll Free) bellies2babies.ccs@shaw.ca
Family Tutoring - provides a tutor to help families experiencing difficulties with their school age child’s learning skills in reading, writing and math. Contact: Kim Roberts, CBAL Coordinator, 250-427-4468 kroberts@cbal.org
Making Connections - For parents with school aged children K-Grade 4 create an awareness of the learning and reading process so parents can play a bigger role in their child’s education. Develop skills that will help your child be a better learner. Child care and dinner provided. Contact: Kim Roberts, CBAL Coordinator 250-427-4468 Email: kroberts@thehub.literacy.bc.ca
Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program – for parents of children birth to 5. Call Diana 250-427-0716
Preschool Speech & Language Services – For families with children from birth to Kindergarten entry who are concerned about their child’s communication development. Parents or anyone working with a child can refer. Contact Marie-Elise Marcoux, Registered Speech Language Pathologist at 250-432-5429 or Marie-Elise.Marcoux@interiorhealth.ca.
Play & Learn Parenting/Literacy Program - For parents with children 5 and under. Group discussions and activities for parents to learn tips and strategies on how to support their children’s literacy development. Registration required. Contact: Kim Roberts, CBAL Coordinator, 250-427-4468 kroberts@cbal.org
Settlement Program - Eligible new immigrants can get help with information about and orientation to the community, citizenship, language training and referrals with one to one worker or small group. Pam Bailie, CBAL Kimberley Settlement Worker 250-427-6027 kimberleysettlement@cbal.org
Strong Start BC - For preschool-aged children accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Activities include a Mother Goose circle time, play based learning centers, nutritious snacks and gross motor play. September – June Mon, Tues, Thurs, & Friday 9:00 – Noon, Wed. Night Family Supper 3:30 – 6:30 pm Contact Gina Panattoni, Strong Start Coordinator 25-427-5309 or https://www.facebook.com/kimberleyelc
Treehouse –Families with children aged 0 – 5 are invited to the gym to enjoy play. Meet visitors from community programs. Tuesdays, 9:00 - 12:00. Starts Sept. 23.Contact: Diana Card 250 427-0716 capckimb@shaw.ca