Fun in the Sun Summer Camps

 

Our “Fun in the Sun” Summer Program was originally developed to accommodate the needs of our families who were needing care during the summer months.

Over time as our organization began to expand; we recognized there was an opportunity to build on the programming that was offered to our Kindergarten and School Aged children during the summer months.  Inspired by the variety of summer recreational activities in the community, we wanted to create a similar experience at Schoolhouse!

In the summer of 2023, we offered our first series of “Summer Camps”.  Facilitated by our staff, they offered a series of half-day workshops over the course of a week.  These ‘recreational based’ camps included:

Visual Art, Science, Photography Math and Nature, Sports, Drama/Theatre, Dance, Puppetry, Music and Yoga.

The children were very excited to participate, and we asked for some reviews!

“It was the best thing ever” “I liked the stop motion (photography)” “(I liked) learning new dances” “(I liked) playing games” “(I) played a little movie, just a little play” “We all had ideas and Cameron put it together”

In 2024; after a period of discussion and reflection, we made the decision to refine “Fun in the Sun”.  The primary purpose was to engage the children in more focused work based on their interests.  We changed the title to a Summer Club, as opposed to a Camp.

In keeping with our philosophy and the importance of relationships; we kept all of the programming ‘in house’, as opposed to staff travelling to other locations.  Based on their observations, the staff collaborated with the children to create their clubs. This new format also allowed for more flexibility; taking into consideration the rhythm of the day.  Of course there were always other planning happening, and each group had its own unique ideas and interests.

Here are some examples of the Clubs that were developed:

  • Art Club, Science Club, Building Club, Sports Club
  • Knitting and Crochet Club, Rock Club, SPCs Got Talent Club
  • Book Club, Bugs and Bees Club, Yoga Club, Culture and Literacy Club
  • Pokemon Club, Dance Club, Life Skills Club

In 2025, the program evolved and changed again! 

Instead of a ‘Club’ or ‘Camp’ format; our goal was to streamline our ‘extra-curricular’ programming and create a more harmonious and integrated approach.  Educators and children were encouraged to be more flexible in their thinking.  

For example; how could materials or Loose Parts be set up in the environment and worked on throughout the day?  Could it be something that the children would be able to work on both in our indoor and outdoor learning environments?  Could it be something that would have the potential to develop into a project over the course of several days or weeks?

With our upcoming 40th Anniversary, there are opportunities to showcase the amazing work that’s been done over the past several months!

Our Mission

The Schoolhouse Playcare Centre provides a safe home-like environment where children can grow as unique individuals.
We strive to work in partnership with you and your child to ensure a positive learning experience.

What Parents Say

As a parent, finding a daycare that prioritizes both safety, specifically catering to children with allergies, and educational development was my top priority; thankfully St. James Schoolhouse Playcare Centre has exceeded my expectations. From the moment we enrolled, we felt welcomed into a nurturing community where every child is valued and supported. The staff demonstrated the highest level of professionalism, ensuring that safety and well-being remain at the forefront of every program. What sets St. James Schoolhouse Playcare Centre apart is the seamless continuity across its programs and activities, fostering a sense of stability and growth for all children. Each day is filled with thoughtfully designed activities that encourage both learning and self-discovery, helping my child build confidence, independence, and essential early developmental skills. I couldn't be happier with the care and education my child receives at St. James Schoolhouse Playcare Centre.
Brittany Kennedy
I have had two children go through the Schoolhouse Playcare Centre Nursery School Program and I can't say enough good things about it. It was the perfect balance of socialization, independence and confidence building and preparing my children for kindergarten. The caregivers we have had over the years have been outstanding and my children have made lasting friendships with their peers from the program.
Ruth Sisak
We were lucky enough to get a spot in Schoolhouse Playcare Centre when our daughter was about a year and a half. We were both apprehensive about this transition but from the tour on our uneasiness turned to the utmost comfort. The supportive and skilled staff welcomed our daughter into an educational and fun environment with her peers. She now loves "going to school" and thrives at Schoolhouse Playcare.
Jessica Carfagnini and Amy Kelterborn
Our experience at Schoolhouse Playcare with our two wonderful daughters has exceeded our expectations. The staff are what truly set Schoolhouse apart from other daycares. When we were making the significant decision of choosing where to send our children for the principal part of their days I knew I wanted a center-based daycare. These reasons included reliability, accountability, diversity and selection of resources. I realized the most important quality a daycare could have is the quality of staff. I have continuously admired the kind, gentle, empathetic, nurturing nature and endless patience of the staff. I feel confident bringing my children there everyday knowing I can (and am encouraged to) drop in at any time and see my children learning and playing and growing.
Rebecca Urbanski
Schoolhouse Playcare Centre has been a part of our family for 3 years. I can truly say that I have complete peace of mind when I drop my children off. The Educators are competent and compassionate people who take great pride in the little people in their care.
Sheila Zappitelli
The Schoolhouse Playcare Centre is a child care centre far beyond what those words mean at the surface. Schoolhouse has been one of the best parts of our children’s lives over the past number of years. The Educators and staff are absolutely gifted and true treasures in what they do with and for children and families. The patience, kindness and love that the Educators have shown to our children and family has allowed us to feel completely comfortable and trusting in everything Schoolhouse teaches, and the morals, values and ethics it passes along to our children every single day. We, as parents, have become better parents with the tools that the Educators have provided to us through their shared knowledge, observations and mutual understanding of our children always recognizing that every child is unique and special. Schoolhouse is built on a philosophy of communication, emotional understanding and respect for others and our community... We are so very proud to have Schoolhouse as a part of our family.
Ryan and Jessica Murphy
I had such fond memories of St. James Schoolhouse Playcare when I attended the program as a child in the 90's. My son is currently in the infant group and the program is even better than I remember. My son is thriving and is excited to go to daycare every morning. His educators are playful, caring and attentive to his needs. He's learned so much already and we feel confident of his safety and well-being every single day.
Georgia Kaustinen
St. James Schoolhouse Playcare Centre has been an exceptional environment for our two boys. From the very beginning, we have always felt informed and confident about what is happening in their day. The friendly, caring staff and the daily journals keep us connected and reassured that our children are in great hands. We are truly grateful for the thoughtful programming and dedication of the team. Thanks to Schoolhouse Playcare Centre, our boys have grown and excelled in many ways. Thank you again for everything you do for our family.
The Streys
Our daughter began attending Schoolhouse Playcare in September 2025, and we initially had some apprehension, as we were more familiar with home-based daycare settings. We were allowed visits leading up to her start date, which helped aid in the transition. However, our experience has far exceeded our expectations! Since starting, our daughter has made wonderful progress, like learning to follow simple directions and even using baby sign language. Each morning, she recognizes the route to daycare and becomes increasingly excited as we get closer. She happily runs into the educator's arms for a hug and is always greeted with the same warmth and enthusiasm. The level of care she receives truly feels as though she is one of their own children. We cannot say enough positive things about St. James Schoolhouse Playcare. The growth and development we have seen in such a short time has been remarkable, and we look forward to watching her continue to thrive.
Jenna Petrynka
Schoolhouse Playcare Centre

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