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The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) continues to enhance early childhood learning opportunities through its growing Early Years Learning Program. Now in its third year, the program has expanded from an initial six-school pilot to 16 schools in the 2024-2025 school year, with the potential for growth in the future.
The Early Years Learning Program, which varies in structure from school to school, runs from fall until early June and provides a welcoming, flexible environment for young learners. Volunteers receive support and resources from the UCDSB Teaching and Learning Department before beginning their sessions, ensuring they feel comfortable engaging in play-based activities that can support early numeracy and literacy in a fun and engaging way.
“Volunteers, many of whom are retired educators, parents, or grandparents of students, dedicate their time weekly or biweekly to work with children in a fun, engaging environment within the schools,” explains Julie Iwachniuk, Principal of Teaching and Learning at UCDSB and the program’s lead. “It’s a flexible program that meets the needs of each child and family, and it fosters an early connection to school life.”
At Rideau Vista Public School, the program is making a meaningful impact on children and families as they prepare for school. Running every second week after school, the program is supported by three dedicated school staff members who volunteer their time.
“Come September, that first day of school can be overwhelming. This program helps ease the minds of parents, children, and even us as educators,” says Lisa Seed, volunteer and Early Childhood Educator at the school. “We focus on early math and literacy skills, but we also incorporate open play and sensory activities because some children need time to warm up and get engaged.”
Beyond academic readiness, the program fosters social connections among families. “We had a new student join last week and he and another boy immediately started talking and playing together. Even their moms got to know each other,” adds Seed. “One of the families is new to the community, and this has been a great way for them to make connections.”
For parents, the program provides reassurance as their children take their first steps into school life. Nikki Dupuis, whose daughter is in the program at Rideau Vista, says it has been a game-changer for their family.
“This program has helped me and my family so much. This is our first child, and it’s always nerve-wracking,” says Dupuis. “It’s nice to be able to meet some of the staff, see the classroom, and get her used to where she’s going. It’s so good for her—she’s meeting classmates now and won’t be as scared when she starts in the fall.”
“When I visited Rothwell-Osnabruck School recently, I saw firsthand how much this program is helping children get comfortable with school,” says Iwachniuk. “One boy was nervous at first and wouldn’t leave his mother’s side. But after a while, he joined a volunteer and started building a tower with blocks, counting as he added each piece. It’s those moments that show the power of this program.”
The Early Years Learning Program also serves as a bridge to other community supports. “When I speak with childcare providers, speech and language professionals, and autism therapists, they are eager to collaborate and support this initiative,” says Iwachniuk. “It’s a great way to connect families with resources they may not have been aware of.”
Schools participating in the program this year include: Avonmore ES, Bridgewood PS, Drummond Central S, Centennial ’67 PS, Front of Yonge PS, Laggan PS, Maple Grove PS, Maxville PS, Meadowview PS, Montague PS, Naismith Memorial PS, Oxford-on-Rideau PS, Queen Elizabeth S, Rideau Vista PS, Rothwell-Osnabruck S and South Crosby PS. Interested families can contact their local school directly for more information.
