StrongStart BC
StrongStart BC programs provide rich learning environments designed for early learning development – language, physical, cognitive, social and emotional. Qualified early childhood educators lead learning activities where children find opportunities to make friends and interact with others of similar ages.
Participate with your young child (aged birth to five) in play-based early learning activities – including stories, music and art. At no cost to families, this early learning drop-in program helps prepare children for success in Kindergarten.
Find a StrongStart BC Centre
There are 329 StrongStart BC programs currently offered in BC. StrongStart BC centres operate on a drop-in basis during the school year, and are intended for attendance by children ages 0-5, along with their parent or caregiver. A parent or a caregiver registers when they attend for the first time. Each school district has one or more locations offering a program, usually located within schools.
You may attend any centre that you wish. Call the school or school district offices to ask about program attendance, schedules, and hours of operation.
Registration
To register for a StrongStart BC program, first find a location near you. You will complete a registration form on your first day. Please also be prepared to provide legal proof of identification for your child – this includes:
- Any type of vital statistics document, like a birth certificate
- Identification issued by Immigration Canada (e.g. passport, visa, permanent resident card)
- An Aboriginal Status card
Be sure to check in with the facilitator or office staff as soon as you arrive at the StrongStart BC program – they can assist with this process and answer any questions you might have.
Your child’s initial registration into a StrongStart BC program will also mark the beginning of their educational record in B.C. and they will receive a Personal Education Number (PEN).