Head Start and Daycare

Daycare hours of operation: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-4:30 PM (runs all year long, including summer)

Head Start hours of operation: Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday- 9 AM-12 PM

 (runs all year long, including summer. Contact us about a free shuttle bus.)

Come grow with us! Making sure your child gets off to a good start in their first few years of their life is one of best way to set them up for a lifetime of happiness, health and success. Xwísten offers two early childhood programs, Head Start and Daycare, for children and their parents.

Both of these programs use a “play-based” approach to learning that is shaped by Xwísten values and beliefs. Our philosophy is one of children, parents and elders having the right to grow and develop in a positive atmosphere. The St’át’imc Language and culture are fundamental parts of the programs, which support child and family identity and encourage positive self-esteem.

What is Head Start?

Head Start is a program funding by Health Canada that is for children (ages 0-6) and their parents. The goal is to enhance early childhood development, school readiness and overall family health and wellness for First Nations preschool children. The program is locally controlled and designed, so that it matches the needs of our community!

What is daycare?

Daycare provides childcare during the day so that parents can work, look after relatives, or take care of other things. Children aged 0-12 are welcome in this program.

What types of activities take place at Daycare and Head Start?

Our programs vary day to day, and we offer a number of hands on learning activities including cultural lessons, reading, food and nutrition, and of course, plenty of time to play! A few of the regularly scheduled activites include:

  • Statimc Language learning on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
  • Monthly visits from the librarian
  • Monthly visits from a Speech and Language Pathologist

What are the fees?

The cost is determined based on your child’s age. Click here for Bridge River Daycare User Fees

Are Headstart and daycare just for members?

Our high quality programs are available to everyone – members and non-members.

Do I have to pre-register or is it drop-in?

Headstart is a drop-in program. Drop-in daycare is available, but parents must call to make sure we have space available.

Do you provide food or transportation?

  • We provide morning snack, Lunch, and afternoon snack and water and milk through out the day.
  • We have a van to pick up parents and children for Head Start!

How do we register?

Registration forms can picked up at the Daycare (in the Band Office). We can also provide subsidy forms, and help you with completing and submitting the required forms.