Hello families and friends,
March brings longer days, fresh energy, and meaningful opportunities for learning and celebration across our centres. As we move toward spring, we continue focusing on connection, inclusion, and creating rich learning environments for the children and families we serve.
What’s Happening Across the Network
March is bringing energy, creativity, and meaningful connection to our centres. From cultural celebrations to hands-on learning and professional milestones, our classrooms are full of moments that reflect the heart of our Network.
Head Office
In Honor of Black History Month, Network’s Head Office hosted a virtual keynote address designed specifically for our Early Childhood Educators & staff.
The engaging, and inspiring session was led by Celeste Licorish, consultant, speaker, and coach with All Sorts Consulting. Drawing on both professional and lived experience navigating childcare and education systems in Ontario, Celeste explored with us the the long-standing history and contributions of Black communities in Canada, a story rooted in resilience, strength, and joy.
Child’s Nest 121
Child’s Nest 121 is looking forward to welcoming Leslieville Kids Dental Centre for on-site dental screenings and family resources, expected during the week of March 23. It’s always wonderful when community partners support our families in such practical ways.
Classrooms are also embracing the season. Children will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by wearing green, and our infant and toddler rooms are exploring spring through planting projects and simple baking experiences.
Dane
At Dane, the anticipation of spring is in the air. Children have been carefully growing flower bulbs and starting vegetable seedlings indoors, patiently waiting for warmer days when they can move their plants outside.
The centre has also been deeply engaged in cultural learning. Displays were created in honour of Black History Month, and a staff member shared a meaningful presentation on the history and culture of St. Vincent. Children have explored Ramadan through art, creating moons, stars, and lanterns, and also learned about Lunar New Year traditions, including the sharing of red envelopes. These experiences continue to build understanding, respect, and curiosity about the world around us.
Lansing
We are proud to celebrate two of Lansing educators, Fang (Mandy) Xiao and Erika Andrea Santana Vanegas, who have completed their Early Childhood Education through the apprenticeship program. Their dedication and commitment to professional growth strengthen not only their own practice, but our entire Network. Congratulations on this important achievement.
Liberty Village
Liberty Village has embraced learning through storytelling, culture, and music.
During Black History Month, children welcomed a special guest who shared stories about influential figures such as Garrett Morgan and Martin Luther King Jr. Through books and conversation, classrooms explored themes of confidence, courage, and pride. The learning concluded with music and movement. Sometimes the best way to celebrate is together, on your feet!
The centre also marked Lunar New Year with a special visit from one of our Infant families, who shared a story in both English and Mandarin. These moments of family partnership bring culture to life in the most meaningful way.
Earlier this year, Liberty Village welcomed Toronto musician Fedor Bondar for an interactive music workshop. From guitar to harmonica to tongue drum, children explored sound, rhythm, and expression. We look forward to welcoming him back on April 1 for another joyful session of musical discovery.
International Women’s Day – March 8
On March 8, we recognize International Women's Day, a global celebration of the achievements of women and a reminder of the importance of equity and inclusion.
This month is a beautiful opportunity to help children understand that everyone, regardless of gender, can lead, create, nurture, and inspire.
Families are encouraged to continue the conversation at home by sharing stories about influential women in your own lives.
St. Patrick’s Day – March 17
On March 17, we celebrate Saint Patrick's Day!
While often associated with shamrocks and the colour green, this day also offers a chance to explore Irish culture, music, and traditions in a developmentally appropriate way.
As always, our focus is on joyful exploration and inclusive learning.
Family Fun in Toronto This March
Looking for activities outside of the classroom? Here are a few family-friendly events happening in Toronto this month:
City of Toronto Events & Free Fun
A vibrant annual parade celebrating Irish heritage with music, floats, and community spirit.
Toronto Maple Leafs Home Games at Scotiabank Arena
A fun outing for hockey-loving families.
March Break Programming at Royal Ontario Museum
Interactive exhibits and special programming designed for curious young learners.
Family Activities at Toronto Zoo
A wonderful way to explore wildlife while enjoying the early signs of spring.
From our Classrooms: Supporting Children Through Transitions
Transitions whether from home to child care, indoors to outdoors, or one activity to another, can be challenging for young children. Here are a few educator-backed strategies families can use at home:
Give Advance Notice
Let children know what’s coming next. Simple language like, “In five minutes, we’re cleaning up for dinner,” helps them prepare emotionally.
Offer Limited Choices
Providing two appropriate options (“Red boots or blue boots?”) supports autonomy while maintaining structure.
Use Visual or Verbal Routines
Predictability builds security. Consistent routines reduce anxiety and support self-regulation.
Stay Calm and Confident
Children co-regulate with adults. A steady tone and clear expectations help them feel safe.
Transitions are learning moments. With patience and consistency, children build resilience, flexibility, and confidence.
Announcements From Network’s Accounting Department
To Families
Please be advised that your 2025 Tax Receipt for child care services has been emailed. In the event that you have not received it, please check your spam folder or contact the Supervisor of the program which your child is attending.
To Staff
A memorandum has been emailed to you with instructions as to how to retrieve your 2025 T4 through the ADP platform.
To Affiliated Home Child Care Providers
Your 2025 T4A has been emailed to you. In the event that you have not received it, please check your spam folder or contact your Quality Assurance Consultant.
As we move toward spring, we look forward to outdoor exploration, nature-based learning, and continued partnership with our families.
Thank you for being an essential part of the Network community. Together, we create environments where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to grow.
