EARLY LEARNING FRAMEWORK

The BC Early Learning Framework guides and supports the work that we do in SD22 with our youngest learners from birth to 8 years old.

The Framework provides a vision for respectfully living and learning together and creates a common language and increased understanding of the vital importance of early learning for all young children in SD22, from our StrongStart BC programs to our primary classrooms.

We are using the Early Learning Framework to:

• Support dialogue and reflection among educators regarding the importance of the development and learning of young children
• Guide the decisions we make with our early learning programs and activities
• Encourage discussion with families about their child’s early learning
• Shape our professional development opportunities for educators

BC Early Learning Framework

Early Learning Framework: A Guide for Families

StrongStart locations open on September 11th, 2023!

StrongStart locations provide early learning programs for parents/caregivers and their pre-school children ages birth to 5 years.

At no cost to families, our drop-in programs allow children to make friends and interact with other children of similar age in a high-quality learning environment.

Facilitated by passionate Early Childhood Educators, our StrongStart programs engage families in meaningful learning experiences and help families learn ways to support their child’s development both at the program and in the home.

Join us at any of our locations for play-based early learning activities including stories, music, art & more!

Alexis Park Elementary School:
Monday – Friday, 8:30-11:30am
4205 – 35 Street, Vernon

Harwood Elementary School:
Monday – Friday, 8:30-11:30am
4320 20th Street, Vernon

Mission Hill Elementary School:
Monday – Friday, 8:30-11:30am
1510 – 36th Street, Vernon

Ellison Elementary School:
Monday – Friday, 8:30-11:30am
2400 Fulton Road, Vernon

Register on your first visit with legal proof of identification for your child.
StrongStart Registration Form

If you have questions about our StrongStart programs, please contact:

Early Learning & Child Care Department: earlylearning@sd22.bc.ca

Seamless Day is a unique program, funded by the Ministry of Education & Child Care that provides before & after school care for Kindergarten students and other school-aged students, as space allows.

Students connect with familiar educators throughout the day, which allows the educators to support children and expand on their interests, curiosities, and wonders.  Early Childhood Educators work alongside the teachers in the classrooms during the school day and provide high-quality child care programs before and/or after school.

Seamless Day is hosted at the following schools:

Okanagan Landing Elementary (after-school child care program)

Ecole Beairsto (before & after-school child care program)

For more information about Seamless Day, see our Child Care Program Guide here: SD22 Child Care Program Guide

If your child attends OKL or Beairsto and you are interested in applying to register in the child care program, please click here

Check back for information about SEY2KT in September 2023.

Check back for information about RSL school-based events in September 2023.

Full-Day Kindergarten
School District 22 offers Full Day Kindergarten at all of our elementary schools, including Full Day French Immersion Kindergarten.

A full day, play-based kindergarten program has many benefits for a child’s academic and social skills. Children can start Full Day Kindergarten in September of the year they turn five years old.

In School District 22 kindergarten classrooms, children are strong, capable in their uniqueness, and full of potential.  Schools partner with families in their child’s learning journey, believing that families have the most important role in contributing to children’s well-being and belonging.

We look forward to welcoming children to kindergarten in School District 22!

Welcome to Kindergarten
All schools host Welcome to Kindergarten (WTK) events to meet registered children and their parents/caregivers.  WTK focuses on fun, play-based learning experiences and is an opportunity for children and families to get to know a variety of school staff.  At WTK, families are provided with a bag full of activities to support learning at home.

For more information on Welcome to Kindergarten, contact your local school Principal or visit www.welcome-to-kindergarten.ca

Kindergarten Gradual Entry
Kindergarten gradual entry is an important transition phase and is focused on the children experiencing success.  During the kindergarten gradual entry period, children attend school for shorter periods of time to allow for a smooth and successful transition to Full Day Kindergarten. Gradual entry also allows for families to share important information about their child.

All schools in School District 22 follow a kindergarten gradual entry program. Contact your local school for your child’s gradual entry schedule.