Mission & Philosophy

Preston Early Learning Centre Inc. is an established leader in the early learning and child care field in Saskatchewan.

Our mission is to inspire children and community. Our vision is that all children, families and communities will be enriched by early learning through our innovation and leadership.

 
 

"On average a child spends 47.5 hours per week in our care."

 

Our Philosophy

At Preston Early Learning Centre (PELC), we believe in creating environments where children feel safe, genuinely cared for, and respected. Our approach is nurturing, stimulating, individualized, and cooperative. Guided by the principles of the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we honor each child as a capable, competent, and unique individual with boundless potential.

We believe that every child has the right to:

  • Relief and protection in all circumstances.

  • Social security, enabling them to grow and develop in good health.

  • Special care that supports their physical, mental, social, and emotional development.

  • Love, understanding, and care within their family and community.

  • A name, an identity, and a sense of belonging.

  • The freedom to be raised in an environment of friendship, where they can explore their abilities and grow into the best versions of themselves.

We also recognize that the best care is achieved through collaboration—bringing together the Board of Directors, centre management, educators, families, and children in a shared commitment to learning and growth.

Philosophy in Action

Our philosophy comes to life through intentional and thoughtful practices:

  1. Environment as the Third Teacher We design and furnish our centres with warm, home-like accents, creating spaces where children feel a sense of comfort and belonging. These environments are intentionally curated to inspire exploration, curiosity, and creativity, in line with the Reggio Emilia approach.

  2. Fostering Positive Relationships A positive atmosphere is achieved through open, honest relationships. We help children develop tolerance, open-mindedness, and an appreciation for diversity—ensuring that all are respected and valued, free from discrimination.

  3. Holistic Development Across all locations, our programs emphasize the play and exploration model, considering every aspect of a child’s development: social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual. Each child’s unique needs and interests are at the heart of our practices as we strive to meet or exceed government licensing expectations.

  4. Collaborative Problem-Solving We address challenges and guide behaviors in a non-punitive, supportive manner. Through strategies like distraction, redirection, clarification, role-playing, and natural and logical consequences, we empower children to learn and grow. When needed, we consult behavior specialists, always ensuring our practices are respectful and aligned with our child-centered philosophy.

  5. Partnership with Families Families are essential partners in our learning community. Together, we build a foundation for children to flourish, fostering their confidence, creativity, and connection to the world around them.

By embracing these principles and practices, we nurture children who are inquisitive, resilient, and inspired learners. At PELC, every child is celebrated for who they are and who they are becoming.

About Us

Preston Early Learning Centre (PELC), incorporated on July 9, 1980. PELC is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the growth and development of children in our community. From humble beginnings at our Main location on Preston Avenue, serving toddlers and preschoolers, we have expanded to multiple vibrant locations:

  • Preston Location: Proving care for children ages 18 months to 5 years.

  • Holliston School: A School Age program for children from kindergarten to 12 years.

  • Fairhaven Centre: Catering to children from toddler age to school age.

  • Willowgrove Centre: Located in the Willowgrove/Holy Family Schools, welcoming infants to children aged 5 years.

  • Stonebridge Centre: Situated at the Chief Whitecap/St. Kateri Schools, providing care and education for infants to children aged 5 years.

In addition to these centres, PELC proudly offers Before & After School programs at Holliston School, Holy Family School, and Chief Whitecap School, ensuring continued support for families and children throughout their educational journey.

As a cornerstone of early learning in the community, PELC is committed to providing nurturing, engaging, and inclusive environments where children can flourish. Together with families, educators, and the broader community, we inspire children to become confident, capable learners with limitless potential.