Seymour Heights Play-Based Programs Association

The Seymour Heights Play-Based Programs Association is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to early childhood education through play-based learning. Registered under the business number 133412056RR0001, the association operates a parent participation preschool serving children aged three to five years. It has been a community fixture since 1957, with over 25 years at its current location in North Vancouver.

Mission and Philosophy

Seymour Heights Play-Based Programs emphasizes the importance of nurturing children's development in a supportive, community-oriented environment. Drawing inspiration from educational philosophies such as those advocated by Loris Malaguzzi, the organization believes that offering children a broad range of experiences enhances their motivation and enriches their learning.

The program is designed not only to support early childhood education but also to strengthen family bonds and foster a sense of community among participating families. The underlying principle is that education is a collaborative process involving parents, educators, and children.

Program Structure

The association runs a parent participation preschool, a model that actively involves parents in their children's education and the school's operations. Parents play a crucial role in decision-making and the smooth functioning of the school.

Families enrolled in the morning program share responsibilities that include direct classroom involvement during 2-3 duty days per month, where they assist with children’s activities and daily routines. This approach provides parents with opportunities to develop new skills, deepen relationships with their children, and connect with other families.

Parent Involvement and Community Engagement

Parents contribute to various organizational and operational roles such as:

• Enrollment coordination
• Secretary duties
• Marketing
• Treasury management
• Organizing special events
• Fundraising efforts
• Parent education programs
• Yard and garden maintenance
• General facility upkeep

The association also hosts regular parent education sessions featuring expert speakers and workshops on child development and family life, fostering a community that supports healthy family dynamics and ongoing parental growth.

Educational Approach

The play-based program nurtures children's natural curiosity and creativity through hands-on, exploratory activities. The focus is on creating a rich, engaging environment that supports social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development in early childhood.

Community Impact

Seymour Heights Play-Based Programs has been an integral part of the North Vancouver community for decades, serving as a hub for families to share values and engage actively in early childhood education. Its longstanding commitment to parent participation and play-based learning has contributed to the development of a supportive and connected community of families.

The Seymour Heights Play-Based Programs Association remains committed to providing a nurturing and collaborative space for young learners and their families, promoting early education through active engagement and community involvement.

[1] https://seymourheightspreschool.org [2] https://seymourheightspreschool.org/about/what-is-a-play-based-program/ [3] https://www.charitydata.ca/charity/seymour-heights-play-based-programs-association/133412056RR0001/ [4] https://fconline.foundationcenter.org/fdo-grantmaker-profile/?collection=grantmakers&activity=result&key=7070257 [5] https://www.mapquest.com/ca/british-columbia/seymour-heights-play-based-programs-assn-455018274