Summit Kids

Hey parents, a revised Affordability Grant is on the way for Calgary daycares!

fullblastadmin — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:35:53 +0000

Earlier this year, the Government of Alberta announced a funding increase under the Affordability Grant, lots has changed in the Calgary daycare world. The goal for the government is to get daycare fees down to around $10-25$ a day by 2026.

First of all, what is the difference between Subsidy and Affordable Grant?

Yes, many parents have that question, it could be tricky. Let me try to explain it!

Affordable Grant is available for: every child aged 5 and under (kindergarten age and under), and Summit Start takes care of all the details.
Subsidy is available to all eligible children in care from 0-12 years, however parents must apply for this themselves and it is based on family income.

The question is, how much will it cost for parents?

The daycare Affordability Grant is based on a few criteria; the age of your child, and how many hours your child is registered for at Calgary daycare, like Summit Start.

Since rates might be different for each age, daycare and so on, for us at Summit Start, we should focus on the fact the rates are lowering overall for all families (regardless of income) and additionally families that make under $180,000/annually are eligible for additional support in the form of Child Care Subsidy up to $266.

Let’s start with how much of the daycare affordability grant you might receive. Look at the picture below.

When and How Will This Daycare Grant Be Available?

Good news! The Affordable Grant will be available on Jan 1st 2024! Great, right?!

Presenting the newest Calgary Daycare – located within the Cityscape Community

fullblastadmin — Wed, 21 May 2025 18:07:40 +0000

Centered in the vibrant community of Cityscape NE Calgary, our newest Daycare – Summit Start shows a modern and nurturing facility!

Nurturing Brilliance Through Emergent Curriculum in Calgary's Cityscape Community

In the vibrant city of Calgary, c that embraces emergent curriculum, enriching young minds in the heart of the dynamic Cityscape community. At our Calgary Daycare, we champion the brilliance within every child. Our nurturing daycare environment embraces diverse talents, celebrating brilliance in unconventional ways.

Summit Start: A Progressive Journey Celebrating Brilliance at Every Stage

In the Libby Room, from 6 months old, children embark on a journey of sensory exploration and play, fostering wonder and curiosity. The Griffin Room, for ages 19 months and beyond, balances parallel and group play, promoting independence and social skills. The Parker Room, starting at 3 years introduces preschool education through Summit Steps, emphasizing independent exploration and hands-on learning.

The Alex Room, starting at 4, signifies our Summit Launch program, supporting academic and social growth as children prepare for kindergarten. Summit Start is dedicated to celebrating and nurturing brilliance, offering a unique approach from gentle beginnings to advanced learning opportunities. Our commitment to recognizing diverse brilliance aims to change the world—one child at a time.

The emergent curriculum at Summit Start Daycares instills a lifelong love for learning, setting a strong foundation for a child’s educational journey. Explore more about our enriching early childhood education at Daycare!

The Importance of Early Childhood Education

fullblastadmin — Wed, 21 May 2025 18:06:17 +0000

Early Childhood Education is the foundation upon which a child’s future academic, social, and emotional development is built. The significance of this crucial phase cannot be overstated, as it sets the stage for a child’s lifelong learning journey. In this blog, we’ll explore the profound importance of Early Childhood Education, and how Summit Start, the newest daycare in Calgary, can help with that.

Building a Strong Foundation

Summit Start – Daycare centers play a pivotal role in preparing children for formal schooling. These early years, from birth to age five, are a critical period when young minds are highly receptive.

Social and Emotional Development

Our Daycare’s programs go beyond academics to nurture essential social and emotional skills. They offer children the chance to interact with peers, learn sharing and conflict resolution, and boost self-confidence. These early interactions are instrumental in shaping a child’s ability to collaborate, communicate, and empathize throughout life.

Closing Achievement Gaps with Summit Start

Quality Early Childhood Education can help narrow achievement gaps. Research underscores that children who have access to quality programs are better prepared for school and later life. This is crucial in addressing educational disparities and ensuring equal opportunities for all children to succeed.

Long-term Benefits

Early Childhood Education provides enduring benefits. Children who participate in quality programs are more likely to graduate from high school, pursue higher education, enjoy improved career prospects, and exhibit better health outcomes. They are also less likely to engage in criminal behavior.

Involving Parents

Early Childhood Education is a partnership between educators and parents. In our newest daycare in Calgary, parents play a critical role in their child’s education. Quality programs often involve parents in their child’s learning journey, equipping them with tools and knowledge to support their child’s development.

Conclusion

In summary, Early Childhood Education is a fundamental necessity for children, setting them on a path to success and fulfillment. It’s not just a choice but a vital investment in their future and society at large. Recognizing and supporting the importance of quality Early Childhood Education ensures that every child has access to the strong foundation they deserve. If you are living in Calgary or in the neighborhood area you have the best opportunity, the newest Daycare is Summit Start! Get in touch!

The Value of Out-of-School Care in Calgary: Supporting Children Beyond the Classroom

fullblastadmin — Wed, 21 May 2025 18:05:50 +0000

Out-of-school care provides an essential extension of a child’s educational journey, offering a safe, enriching environment beyond regular school hours. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of out-of-school care, emphasizing its role in supporting children’s development and the peace of mind it offers to parents and what Summit Kids can offer!

A Complement to Formal Education

Out-of-school care in Calgary serves as a valuable complement to formal education. It bridges the gap between school hours and parents’ work schedules, ensuring that children have a structured, supervised environment where they can continue their learning and growth.

Enriching Activities in Calgary Out-of-School Care - Summit Kids

Out-of-school care programs provide a wide range of enriching activities, from arts to sports and games. These activities not only keep children engaged but also encourage the development of skills, creativity, and teamwork.

Fostering Social Skills

Out-of-school care brings together children of different ages and backgrounds. This diverse social environment offers an ideal setting for kids to build friendships, practice conflict resolution, and develop essential social skills that will serve them throughout life.

Convenient and Flexible for Parents

For parents, out-of-school care is a lifeline. It offers the flexibility needed to balance work and family life, reducing the stress associated with scheduling challenges. Knowing that their children are in a safe and nurturing environment allows parents to focus on their own responsibilities with peace of mind.

Conclusion

Out-of-school care is not merely a convenience; it’s a vital component of a child’s educational journey and a boon for busy parents. By providing a structured, supportive environment, these programs extend the benefits of formal education, reinforce social skills, and encourage well-rounded development. Recognizing the importance of out-of-school care is essential in helping children thrive both academically and socially, and in supporting families in achieving a healthy work-life balance. That’s why Summit Kids exists: To provide quality out-of-school care in Calgary!

Click here for more information!

Calgary’s Child Parent’s Choice Award for Best Children’s Camp!

fullblastadmin — Wed, 21 May 2025 18:02:12 +0000

Summer is just around the corner, and if you’re a parent in Calgary, you’re probably already thinking about how to keep your kids entertained and engaged during those long, sunny days. Well, look no further than Summit Summer, the sister program to the award-winning Summit Kids program, which has recently won the coveted Parent’s Choice Award for Best Children’s Camp in Calgary!

A Summer of Unforgettable Fun

As a parent myself, I know how important it is to find a summer camp that not only keeps my kids busy but also provides them with a safe, nurturing environment where they can learn, grow, and make lasting memories. That’s exactly what Summit Summer promises to deliver.

From the moment I dropped my kids off on the first day, I could tell they were in for a treat. The enthusiastic staff greeted them with warm smiles and infectious energy, instantly putting them at ease. And as the day unfolded, I could see the excitement on their faces as they participated in a whirlwind of activities, from arts and crafts to sports and outdoor adventures.

One of the things that really stood out to me was the camp’s emphasis on fostering a sense of community and friendship among the campers. My kids came home each day buzzing with stories about the new friends they’d made and the hilarious antics they’d gotten up to. It was heartwarming to see them so engaged and happy, and I knew they were creating memories that would last a lifetime.

A Well-Rounded Experience

But Summit Summer isn’t just about fun and games – it’s also about learning and personal growth. The camp’s diverse range of activities ensures that every child has the opportunity to explore their interests and discover new passions. Whether it’s conducting science experiments, tackling DIY projects, or participating in team-building exercises, there’s something for everyone.

I was particularly impressed by the camp’s focus on outdoor activities and environmental education. In a world where kids are increasingly glued to screens, it’s refreshing to see a program that encourages them to disconnect and appreciate the great outdoors. My kids came home with a newfound appreciation for nature and a desire to protect the environment – a valuable lesson that will serve them well in the years to come.

A Safe and Nurturing Environment

Of course, as a parent, safety is always a top priority. That’s why I was relieved to learn that Summit Summer takes a comprehensive approach to ensuring the well-being of its campers. From stringent background checks on staff to strict safety protocols during activities, no stone is left unturned.

But beyond just physical safety, Summit Summer also prioritizes emotional and social well-being. The staff is trained to create an inclusive and supportive environment where every child feels valued and respected. This nurturing atmosphere allows kids to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and develop confidence and resilience – skills that will serve them well in all aspects of life.

Making Child Care Accessible

One of the things that truly sets Summit Summer apart is its commitment to making high-quality childcare accessible to families from all economic backgrounds. Thanks to the “Revised Affordability Grant” and subsidy program, many parents in Calgary are now able to enroll their children in Summit Summer at a significantly reduced cost.

This groundbreaking initiative is a game-changer for families who might have previously been priced out of such enriching summer experiences. By removing financial barriers, Summit Summer is ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, regardless of their family’s circumstances. It’s a powerful testament to the program’s values of inclusivity and diversity, and a shining example of how Child Care should be a right, not a privilege.

As a parent, it’s incredibly reassuring to know that my children have access to such a high-quality program without breaking the bank.

The Verdict

As the summer draws to a close, I can’t help but feel grateful for the incredible experience my kids had at Summit Summer. They’ve come home tired but happy, with a renewed zest for life and a treasure trove of memories that will stay with them forever.

If you’re a Calgary parent looking for a top-notch summer camp experience for your kids, I can’t recommend Summit Summer highly enough. With its winning combination of fun, learning, and personal growth, it’s no wonder it’s been awarded the Parent’s Choice Award for Best Children’s Camp. Trust me, your kids will thank you for it!

Click here for more information!