The Importance Of
The Natural World
Preschool & Daycare Center Serving Grimshaw, AB
Director/owner Mary Ellen Norton has an Early Childhood Education & Special Education Diploma from the Institute of Human Services in Nova Scotia in 1999
Experienced, Passionate Leadership Since 2014
With a focus on her family, Director/Owner Mary Ellen Norton chose to stay home and open it to others struggling to find quality child care, and in 2014, she opened the center. With more than 25 years of experience in early education, her heart and expertise enrich children’s lives every day.
She was the director of a large multicultural daycare center in Iqaluit, Nunavut for 5 years, and an Early Childhood Educator, Family Day Home Coordinator, and Executive Director for the Peace River Child Care Association from 2005-2010.
A Polished Blend Of Three Evidence-Based Curriculums
Choose part or full-time care, with drop-in options, and don't pay if your child has a sick day.
An Outdoor Classroom Enlightens Beginnings
Rain or shine, your child enjoys up to 4 hours a day of outdoor play where they run, climb, and jump on natural play structures, get messy in the mud kitchen, sift and sculpt in the large sandbox, or dig and water gardens where they watch life unfurl in real-time.
Community Give-Back Models A Global Mind
As explorers who love the outdoors, it fits–connecting with the community outside the classroom models kindness in action. Plus, volunteering in parades and taking part in fundraising BBQs is plain fun!
Educated Teachers Share Their Expertise
Veteran or not, all the teachers enroll in continuing education, keeping them caught up on the latest teaching strategies and early brain science. They also have early childcare education diplomas or certificates, so you know your child is in expert care.
Accredited By Alberta Child Care For Proven Quality Early Education
This stamp of approval means your child benefits from effective teachers, a positive, nurturing environment, and a healthy, safe space, so you know you’re choosing the right destination for your child’s home away from home.
Enlightened Beginnings Shape Lifelong Learning
How Old Is Your Child?
Toddlers
12 - 36 months
preschool
3 - 5 years
Out Of School
6 - 12 years
First Day Checklist
Below is a list of items that your child will need to have the best experience for their first day and beyond. Making sure that you have these for the first day will ensure a smooth start.
Family Enrollment Packet (if not yet given to the Parent Engagement Specialist)
This includes a copy of your child’s updated immunization record and your signed parent contract. All paperwork must be signed and turned in at least 24 hours prior to first day with Enlightened Beginnings.
At least 1 change of clothes (including socks and underwear)
You will want to make sure that these clothes are changed seasonally and as your child outgrows them. Be sure to send in replacements if the extra change of clothes is used. This change of clothing will be kept in your child’s cubby
Blanket, and “lovey” item if your child prefers one
Please label all of these items and place in your child’s cubby. The blanket can either go home weekly to be washed and returned to start each new week or will be washed on-site.
Diapers and wipes (if applicable)
Please be sure to bring a full pack and label the pack with your child’s first and last name. These items will be stored in the classroom. You will be informed when these supplies are in need of replenishing.
Pre-made bottles and/or baby food (if applicable)
These things must be pre-made and labeled with the date, contents, and child’s first and last name. They must be brought in for each day.
Empty labeled bottles
Please label these bottles with your child’s name.
Empty labeled sippy cup
Milk will be served at snacks and meal times in the provided cup.
