FAQs

FAQs2025-09-30T16:18:33+00:00

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What is my role at Playgroup?2025-05-02T17:58:56+00:00

In order to play safely and have fun we encourage the following:

  • All parents and caregivers must sign in and out of the Playgroup.
  • You are responsible for the children in your care while at the Playgroup. Please ask another adult to watch your children if your attention is divided for whatever reason.
  • Please keep cell phones in your bag unless it is an emergency.
  • For the safety and respect of all families, you may take photos of your child only.
  • Children should be taught to tidy as they play. Please help your children return toys to marked containers when they have finished playing.
  • Please get involved and keep informed. The notice board is a great place to find out what is going on at the Centre and in the community. Our Playgroup coordinator is available to answer questions, provide resources and offer referrals.
  • Please follow your child’s cues. If they are telling you that they are done at playgroup or are not interested in taking part in circle time, you are always welcome to try again next time.
Can I borrow more than one toy at a time?2015-10-14T12:52:27+00:00

You can borrow three toys and three puzzles for each borrowing period per family.

How do I become a Member?2021-03-18T02:19:36+00:00

Membership is free. Before borrowing, please complete a Toy Library Membership form.

Do I have to be a Toy Library Member to borrow?2021-03-18T02:23:49+00:00

Yes, the toy library is membership based but free of charge.

For how long can I borrow toys from the Toy Library?2020-08-26T13:07:12+00:00

Toys can be borrowed for three weeks at a time.

How are allergies accommodated at Playgroup?2025-05-02T17:05:51+00:00

Please keep snacks at home. No outside food is allowed in the building.

For safety reasons, we ask that you drink your hot coffee or tea before arriving.

We ask that you keep travel mugs, water bottles, sippy cups, bottles in your bags and only take them out when needed.

What if my child is not feeling well?2025-05-02T17:31:58+00:00

For the health of everyone who attends the Playgroup, we ask that you attend the Centre only when you and the children in your care are healthy.

Can I come to as many sessions as I want?2025-05-02T17:15:55+00:00

Playgroup is registration based. You are welcome to sign up for as many playgroups as are available per month. We also have an active waitlist which becomes available once the registration is full. We are only able to accommodate drop-ins if the registration is not full.

When is the Playgroup open?2025-05-02T17:30:14+00:00

We currently have an Infant playgroup, Wednesdays 1:30-3pm and a 0-6yr playgroup, Thursdays 9:30-11am.

Please see our EarlyON page to register for upcoming playgroups.

The drop in is closed during March Break and for two weeks during the Christmas holidays.  Our schedule remains the same year round.

Can I visit the Nursery School Program?2024-04-10T14:26:01+00:00

 

To book a tour of the facility and learn more about our programs, contact Erin at erinc@centrepointechildcareservices.com.

Can my child attend on a short-term basis?2015-10-14T13:07:07+00:00

The program is already set up for children to develop skills over the course of a year. The best option is registration for the whole year, September to June. On occasion we add children at the beginning of January, when space is available.

Do I need to register?2025-05-02T17:34:29+00:00

To avoid a queue at the door and to avoid having to turn friends away, we are a registration based playgroup.

We are only able to accommodate drop-ins if the registration is not full.

Is there a cost to attend the Playgroup?2025-05-02T17:28:49+00:00

There is no charge to attend the Playgroup.

Where is the Playgroup located?2025-05-02T17:29:36+00:00

We are located at 75 Hemmingwood Way in Nepean, Ontario. Please use the west side back door.

What is the staff to child ratio?2021-05-20T14:36:31+00:00

For 16 children, our teaching team consists of two experienced educators: one Early Childhood Educator (RECE) and one Early Childhood Assistant (ECA).

What will my child eat?2021-05-20T14:43:13+00:00

Based on Canada’s Food Guide, a healthy snack will be provided for your child(ren). Special dietary restrictions and allergies can usually be accommodated.

What is your approach to discipline?2017-05-31T01:26:51+00:00

A positive approach to behaviour management is used throughout the day to redirect negative behaviour and assist each child in expressing feelings in a socially acceptable way.

I’d like to become a Home-based Childcare provider. Where do I start?2015-11-10T20:15:19+00:00

As part of the process, see and populate the application form in Careers & Opportunities. You will have to present the following qualifications:

  • A police check for the vulnerable sector – for the caregiver and anyone over 18 in the home.
  • Proven experience with caring for children, either your own or others.
  • Up-to-date Standard First Aid certificate and Infant/Child CPR certificate.
  • A smoke-free home environment.
  • Knowledge of good nutrition and safety principles.
  • Current medical status and immunizations record.
  • Positive behaviour management skills.
  • A willingness to upgrade skills by taking courses.
How do I find a Home-based Childcare program in my neighbourhood?2017-05-31T01:26:51+00:00

Contact our Home-based Childcare Consultant for assistance in finding a suitable Home-based Childcare Provider.

What is the difference between Home-based Childcare and Centre-based Childcare?2015-10-14T13:10:35+00:00

Centre-based Childcare is provided for a capacity of 55 children at our Centre, located at 75 Hemmingwood Way. Home-based Childcare is provided in home environments within the community.

Do I qualify for subsidized child care?2015-11-11T16:42:00+00:00

The City of Ottawa helps families who financially qualify to access the available funds for subsidy. The City administers the Child Care Fee Subsidy and can, if you qualify, for all or part of your child care costs. You will need to communicate with a Subsidy Coordinator. Begin by visiting the Day Care Fee Assistance Program.

Can my child attend the facility on a part-time basis?2019-01-31T16:15:31+00:00
  • Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate part-time arrangements in our Centre-based Childcare program. You may speak with one of our office staff about other options which may prove more suitable for your family.
  • The City of Ottawa helps families who financially qualify to access the available funds for subsidy. The City administers the Child Care Fee Subsidy and can, if you qualify, for all or part of your child care costs. You will need to communicate with a Subsidy Coordinator. Begin by visiting the

Can I visit the Centre-based Childcare program at the Centre?2024-04-08T18:12:47+00:00

To book a tour of the facility and learn more about our Centre-based Childcare program, contact Sandra at sandra@centrepointechildcareservices.com. We suggest visiting between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. or from 2:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday through Friday.

What is the staff to child ratio?2015-11-10T20:27:49+00:00

In our toddler program, we have three staff for 15 children. Our junior preschool has 16 children and two staff members. Our senior preschool has 24 children and three staff members.

What will my child eat?2015-10-14T12:48:27+00:00

The children enjoy regular meal times and a daily rest period. A substantial, nutritious lunch as well as a morning and afternoon snack–all following Canada’s Food Guide–are prepared in our kitchen by a qualified cook. Special dietary restrictions and allergies can usually be accommodated.

What is your approach to discipline?2017-05-31T01:26:51+00:00

A positive approach to behaviour management is used throughout the day to redirect negative behaviour and to assist each child in expressing feelings in a socially acceptable way.

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