Business Details
Nurturing Childcare Excellence in Thunder Bay
At Nanabijou Childcare Centre, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive community centered around growth and shared discovery. Our mission is to provide a nurturing environment where children and adults learn together through the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which emphasizes the innate curiosity and capabilities of every child. We believe in fostering a deep connection with nature, teaching environmental stewardship through both indoor and outdoor experiences. Our values of inclusivity, shared discovery, growth, environment, and kindness guide every aspect of our operations. We work in partnership with our Board of Directors, staff, and parents to implement a strategic plan that outlines our direction from 2025 to 2030. Our programs are designed to support children from birth to 3.5 years, offering full-day services in eight beautiful classrooms and four licensed playgrounds.We prioritize positive relationships with families and communities, ensuring that every child feels valued and empowered. Our educators are knowledgeable and responsive, committed to continuous professional development. We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing the importance of these principles in early childhood education. Through play and inquiry, we help children develop problem-solving, creative thinking, and innovation skills essential for lifelong learning and success.
Services
Full Day Programs
Reggio Emilia Approach
Environmental Stewardship
Inclusive Programs
Play-Based Learning
Highlights and features
- We embrace the Reggio Emilia philosophy for child-led, creative learning.
- Our programs prioritize environmental stewardship and nature-based education.
- We maintain a strong focus on inclusivity and community engagement.
- Our educators are committed to continuous professional development and reflection.
- We offer structured full-day programs in safe, stimulating environments.
Services
Full Day Programs
Our full-day childcare programs provide structured, nurturing environments for children aged birth to 3.5 years. We combine play-based learning with the Reggio Emilia philosophy to foster creativity, social skills, and cognitive development. Our educators create personalized experiences that align with each child's unique needs and interests.
Reggio Emilia Approach
This innovative educational philosophy emphasizes child-led exploration and discovery. We encourage children to express themselves through multiple 'languages' including art, music, and nature-based activities. Our educators act as facilitators, supporting curiosity-driven learning while documenting developmental progress through detailed observation.
Environmental Stewardship
Our curriculum integrates environmental awareness through hands-on outdoor experiences. Children learn ecological responsibility by engaging with natural materials and seasonal changes. Four licensed playgrounds and nature-based classroom elements help cultivate respect for the environment while developing physical coordination and sensory awareness.
Inclusive Programs
We celebrate individual uniqueness through inclusive programming that accommodates diverse abilities and backgrounds. Our staff receives specialized training to support children with varying needs. Family partnerships ensure cultural traditions and individual requirements are honored within our community-centered childcare environment.
Play-Based Learning
Structured play activities form the foundation of our educational approach. Children develop problem-solving skills and creativity through open-ended materials and collaborative projects. Our educators intentionally design play spaces to encourage social interaction, motor development, and early literacy while following Ministry of Education guidelines for early childhood development.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We provide childcare for children from birth up to 3.5 years old in specially designed age-appropriate environments.
What educational philosophy do you follow?
We implement the Reggio Emilia approach, emphasizing child-led learning, creativity, and environmental awareness through play-based exploration.
Are meals provided during the day?
Yes, we offer nutritious meals and snacks following Canada's Food Guide, with accommodations for dietary restrictions and allergies.
What are your operating hours?
Our regular hours are Monday-Friday from 7:45 AM to 5:45 PM, with scheduled closures for holidays and professional development days.
How do you communicate with parents?
We maintain regular communication through our Parent Handbook, Facebook network, and scheduled parent-educator conferences throughout the year.
