Families in Yarmouth and surrounding areas, now have access to more services and supports for young children because of the new Early Years Centre for Yarmouth Central School.

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Karen Casey officially opened the centre today, Sept.

23. This is the first centre in the Tri-County Regional School Board and is across the street from the Yarmouth Central School.

“Providing our youngest children with a strong foundation is an important part of leading a happy, successful life,” said Ms. Casey. “The programs and services offered through the Early Years Centre of Yarmouth County will help children succeed, and provide support to families in their own community.”

A group of stakeholders is working to develop the programs and services offered at the Early Years Centre that will meet the needs of the community.
They are:
— play-based early learning program for four-year olds
— family supports and resources
— regulated child care.

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Tri-County Regional School Board are working with Autism Nova Scotia, Southwest Early Intervention Program and mental health and addictions service providers to offer programs and services at the centre.

There is also a support room available for use by any community group that provides support services to young children and their families.

“Stacey and I are excited for our son to attend the Early Years Centre,” said parent Richard Gosling. “Having a full-day program provided in our community that will prepare him for the upcoming school year, with a professional staff, is a great comfort.

“Also the centre’s close proximity to Yarmouth Central is a great benefit for us and our school community.”

Early years centres are located in or near schools, which make them accessible, convenient and familiar places for families. Each centre is tailored to meet the needs of its community by partnering with local organizations to offer programs and services such as early learning programs for four-year-olds, early intervention, before- and after-school programs, regulated child care, health and parent education.

The development of the Early Years Centres is supported by a five-year funding commitment from the Margaret and Wallace McCain Family Foundation.

“Early learning experiences are central to providing children with a strong foundation for their health, academic success, and well-being,” said Ms. McCain. “By integrating new services for young children and families into the existing public education infrastructure, we can foster vibrant, community responsive schools and close learning gaps before children arrive at school.”

Source: Release