Strathcona Nursery School

My daughter has been at Strathcona Nursery School for two years and we are so happy with our choice. She has grown socially in her time with Teachers Mitzy and Christina. Would definitely recommend SNS to other families.

We have two children at the nursery school. We actually switched from another preschool, because the pace was just too hectic and structured, and there was too much of an agenda, leaving the children little time to play. Teacher Mitzi and Cristina are both so caring and have a wonderful demeanour with the children.Some added perks are that there is childcare for cleaning bees and the annual general meetings, etc., making it easier for single parents, or parents whose partner has an off-hours schedule, to participate.

I love Strathcona Nursery School! This school has been so good for my daughter, soon to be 4y/o. She has always been a socially nervous child from infancy and never had a daycare experience as her grandma was her caregiver while I worked parttime. So, preschool was her first time socializing without the presence of a parent. I joined her for the first day for 1 hour (note: this was in March 2020, just prior to COVID). Teacher Mitzi and Teacher Cristina were gently supportive and were able to read her well and knew when to give her space and when to be more engaged. To my surprise, on her second day she was ready to go all by herself. These teachers have hearts of gold. They genuinely care about the kids they guide. This was the only preschool that would allow me to bridge my daughter by attending with her for as long as was necessary until she felt comfortable (which happened to only be for 1 day, but I know of other parents who helped their kids along for months even up to 1 year!). In the time of COVID, this may not be an option, but eventually it will be again and I feel it was key for my daughter’s success. I also love the mixed age setting, spacious sunny classroom with big windows, that kids who have not yet potty trained are not excluded, that kids can start at anytime (rather than only in September) and the school’s kind and respectful approach to children. Thank you SNS for all that you do for our children :-)

I can't say enough about this school! My son attended for 2.5 years before kindergarten and my daughter is currently attending. Both of my children grew by leaps and bounds in the gentle and creative space that the teachers manage. One of the things that makes this school special and unique is the gentle coaching on social skills and pro-social problem solving that happens organically throughout the day - kids learn to listen to each other, to be more assertive, come up with creative ways to include each other in play, and likewise space is made for them if they just feel like working on something independently. Every child is special and unique and this is a place that recognizes and really celebrates that.

My daughter is in her third year at SNS, and has attended since she was 2.5. The teachers create a warm, welcoming space while empowering the children to choose how they interact with their space. I especially appreciate that they provide outlets for active play (both inside and outside), because I have a very busy child! I have also noticed that my child is becoming more engaged with some of the quieter activities (eg. Crafts) as well. The classroom seems to offer a nice variety of activities for the varied ages (and energy levels) in the group. This year, we've felt secure with all of the measures in place to keep the kiddos (and families) safe. My daughter's only complaint is that the weekend mean she has to have 2 days off in between her school sessions.

Both of my children have attended the preschool and my son is currently in his 3rd year there. I love this school! Both of the teachers have an incredible way of understanding each child and what makes them feel safe and comfortable. They teach very important social skills within the classroom through modeling speech and conflict resolution. They give kids a voice and the ability to speak up for themselves.I also love that there is a 'learn through play' philosophy. Children are allowed to explore and learn at their own pace and through their own interests.The mixed age groups have been so good for my son. He has learned empathy and being the big kid this year has given him a greater sense of pride and confidence.Also, some of my greatest friendships have been formed through connections from this school. I am grateful for the community.

Our daughter has been attending Strathcona Nursery School for almost two years now. This was definitely the right decision. Here are some of the reasons why we love this nursery school:-the teachers and teaching philosophy-the bright spacious classroom-the variety of toys and craft material available-the dependable class time routine-being a part of a communityStrathcona Nursery School has been in operation for over 30 years. It is not hard to find local community members who have sent their child to this school 5, 10, 20 or even 30 years ago.We would highly recommend this community nursery school to friends and family!

My child's time at Strathcona Nursery School has been wonderful. The teachers are extremely caring and kind. The classroom is bright, sunny and open. The children have lots of play time outdoors (weather permitting) and inside. Kids from ages 2.5 -5 all play together in either morning or afternoon classes. One of the few nursery schools were children do not have to be potty trained to attend. The school has several social events through the year and fosters a great sense of community.

I highly recommend Strathcona Nursery School.We enrolled our 3 year old son at the beginning of this year and he is always eager to get out the door to get to pre-school.I really love the learning through play" philosophy

Both of my kids started at Strathcona Nursery School when they were 2.5. They learned so much, made close friends, and had a lot of fun over their years in the preschool. The teachers are great - they provide an interesting/fun space and have strategies to help kids get through trickier issues like separation anxiety and sharing. (I've learned a few useful parenting strategies just by watching the teachers in action.)