July in Toronto!
Hello, lovely families!
As we welcome the warmth and energy of July, we’re reminded of the joy that summer brings to our centres—sunshine-filled days, outdoor exploration, and plenty of opportunities for learning through play.
Whether it's water play, exploring nature in our gardens, or messy sensory fun, our educators are embracing the season with enthusiasm and creativity.
This month, we're thrilled to share how the natural world is becoming an even greater part of the children's daily experiences through an exciting new initiative…
Introducing the Sensorium & Pollination Project
Led by our pedagogy specialist, Susan Menchinton, Network’s centres have launched a Sensorium and Pollination Project. A hands-on gardening initiative designed to ignite children’s curiosity and deepen their connection with the natural environment.
With colorful flowers, herbs, fruits, and pollinator-friendly plants blooming across our playgrounds, children are engaging in rich sensory experiences—touching, smelling, observing, and even helping to care for the gardens themselves. These vibrant new additions not only beautify our outdoor spaces but also invite conversation, wonder, and discovery into children’s daily play.
The project started blooming at four of our centres, each with uniquely designed garden beds that reflect the space and age groups they serve:
Just Kids
- Infant Playground: 5-foot Sensorium Garden
St. Aidan
- Infant Playground: 5-foot Sensorium Garden
- Toddler/Preschool: 5-foot Sensorium Garden
- Toddler/Preschool: 5-foot Pollinator Patch Garden
- Toddler/Preschool: 10-foot Food Forest Garden (vegetables and fruit)
Bendale
- Preschool: Two 5-foot Pollinator Patch Gardens
- Preschool: Two 5-foot Food Forest Gardens (vegetables and fruit)
Dane
- Toddler/Preschool: 39-foot Pollinator Patch Garden
- Toddler/Preschool: 10x20-foot Shade Garden
- Toddler/Preschool: 25-foot Food Forest Garden (vegetables and fruit)
Susan and our educators have thoughtfully designed these gardens to foster environmental awareness, fine motor development, and a sense of responsibility in our young learners. The impact has been both immediate and inspiring, by bringing joy, colour, and a new layer of meaning to outdoor playtime.
Stay tuned for a more in-depth look at this exciting project in our August newsletter, where we’ll share stories, photos, and reflections from the children and educators involved!
Exciting News: Liberty Village Child Care Centre Opening!
We’re thrilled to announce that Network’s Liberty Village Child Care Centre is scheduled to officially open in the first week of July!
This new centre represents a significant milestone for our organization, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome new families, children, and staff into the Network community. With thoughtfully designed learning environments, caring educators, and a commitment to high-quality early learning, Liberty Village is set to become a vibrant and nurturing space for growth and discovery.
We’re so happy to expand our reach and continue building strong, supportive relationships with the families and neighborhoods we serve.
Welcome to Liberty Village! We can’t wait to grow together!
Reminders & Highlights
Centre Closures: Please note that our centres will be closed on Monday, July 1st for Canada Day.
Sun Safety: With the warmer weather, we kindly remind all families to send children with hats, refillable water bottles, and sunscreen labeled with their name.
Summer Celebrations: Be sure to check with your centre for upcoming July events and themed days!
