On this page you will find the Program Descriptions for the programs that we offer as EarlyON Child and Family Centres in the City of Stratford. Some of our programs and services are drop-in and some require pre-registration. Visit our EarlyON in Stratford Program Calendar page to learn when and where programs are offered. You can also use our Find a Program tool.
EarlyON Programs offered in the City of Stratford
EarlyON Play and Learn (birth to 6 years)
“How Does Learning Happen? Through Play! Join other children, caring adults and families in play and exploration together! EarlyON Educators are available to provide support and information around early learning topics, community resources, programs and referrals in our play based environment. Pre-registration is not required for EarlyON Play and Learn.
Baby Time (birth to 18 months)
A time for parents/caregivers to find support & encouragement from their peers and EarlyON Educators in a safe and welcoming environment. This program will feature an engaging circle, giving infant and adult the time to delight together and find creative ways to use songs and puppets alongside developmental milestones! Pre-registration is not required for EarlyON Baby Time.
Music and Movement (birth to 6 years)
Join an EarlyON Educator and other families as we sing, dance, and explore music and movement together! Children and adults of all ages are welcome! Pre-registration is not required for Music and Movement.
Run, Jump, Climb! (birth to 6 years)
A variety of gross motor activities and play toys and equipment will be available for you and your little ones to get active and have fun indoors. This program is offered in the gym at the Stratford YMCA. Pre-registration is not required for Run, Jump, Climb!
Stroller Walk (birth to 6 years)
Come join us outdoors for a walk in our neighbourhoods! Join our EarlyON Educators as we connect, explore and enjoy the outdoors together. Participate in songs, conversation and activities along the way. Participants will need to register for this program. We will not be able to accept late or unregistered participants due to insurance purposes. We will leave promptly at the program start time indicated. Please pre-register at www.KEyON.ca. Please turn notifications to “on” in KEyON to ensure you receive notifications of any closures due to inclement weather.
EarlyON in the City of Stratford Targeted Specialty Programs
Baby Connections (6 to 12 months)
The Baby Connections program helps families develop their babies’ literacy and language skills, and provides each family with a take-home kit of resources. The program has been specifically designed for parents/caring adults and young babies, 6-12 months of age. Join us to gain confidence in playing with and promoting literacy and learning with your baby and receive a free Baby Connections Resource Kit. For in-person programs, registration closes at 9:00am, one business day before the series starts. For online programs, registration closes at 9:00am, 5 business days before the series starts to enable you the opportunity to pick up your kit at a local EarlyON Centre.
Infant Massage (birth to 12 months)
Building a strong attachment with your infant is one of the building blocks to social development. This program is a great way to build this attachment while learning techniques for stimulating, relaxing, and providing relief for your infant. The adult attending and participating in infant massage must be the child’s parent or legal guardian. Please turn KEyON email notifications “on” when registering for Infant Massage. An email will be sent to you that includes information you need to know about Infant Massage prior to attending. Registration closes at 9:00am, 2 business days before the series starts for both in-person and online programs.
Infant Series (birth to 6 months)
Having a new baby is a time of change, discovery, and often many questions. We invite you and your baby to come out and meet other families with babies for discussion around a variety of topics. An EarlyON professional (and some guest speakers) will offer up-to-date information/resources and support. Register at www.KEyON.ca
Play & Swim (birth to 6 years)
The YMCA of Three Rivers and EarlyON in Stratford are excited to invite you to join us for a swim in the shallow end of the YMCA pool and some fun, facilitated activities with your child. Pool ratio is 1 Adult to 2 Children. Please come dressed ready to swim. Each individual who is entering the pool needs to be registered. Life jackets and floatation devices are available for both adults and children. You may bring in a floatation device from home, however, puddle jumpers and water wings are not permitted. Registration Capacity is limited. Please register for one timeslot only.
Please turn notifications on in KEyON to receive important information about this program.