May 15, 2025 – On Early Childhood Education (ECE Day), May 14th, and throughout the month of May, the YMCA of Saskatoon is saying a big thank you to all the amazing staff in our Child Development Centres (CDCs), Early Years Family Resource Centre (EYFRC), and Before and After School Care (BASC) programs. We appreciate all the hard work you do to keep children safe, happy, and learning every day.
The YMCA has over 89 full-time and 93 part-time staff at 21 different locations —18 in Saskatoon, 2 in Martensville, and 1 in Warman. Many of our staff are trained in Early Childhood Education, and all of them have completed our Child Safeguarding Training to help keep children safe. We hope to grow even more because we have some of the best staff in Saskatchewan—and nothing is more important than our children’s care and safety.
If you’ve ever dropped your child off at one of our centres, you’ve probably seen it—an educator who knows your child’s name, their favorite toy, and how they’re feeling just by looking at them. It may seem like a small moment, but it means a lot. It shows your child is being cared for by someone who truly sees and understands them.
Across Saskatoon, our Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) and assistants show up every day with love, knowledge, and care. They help children feel safe and confident. They use their skills to help kids grow, explore, and get ready for the future. Thanks to them, children are learning and thriving every day.
At YMCA Saskatoon, we see this amazing work all the time. Our ECEs are trained in child growth, play-based learning, and inclusion. They meet children where they are and help them grow socially, emotionally, and mentally.
Here’s what some families had to say:
“We are so thankful for the care and attention you give to our child. She’s lucky to have such wonderful teachers!” – Roberta
“Thank you for everything you do! Our kids love pretending to be teachers because of how much they admire you.” – Jill
Our staff at the YMCA Child Development Centres are feeling lots of love and thanks from families all through May.
At our Fairhaven Centre, we made an “Appreciation Station.” Families can write kind messages to say thank you to our early childhood educators. They use sticky notes and markers to share their favorite memories or how a teacher helped or inspired them. Then, they stick the notes on a special board for everyone to see.
At our Downtown Centre, families are also writing kind messages to celebrate our early childhood educators.
One message says:
“Our teachers are the heart of our Downtown Centre. They care a lot, bring fun ideas, and support each other. They help children feel safe, happy, and excited to learn. Happy ECE Day to all our amazing educators!” – Alexandra
Want to learn more or talk to us?
Contact: Alan Long
Director of Philanthropy, Marketing & Communications
📞 Phone: 306-652-7515 ext. 267
📧 Email: alan.long@ymcasaskatoon.org
In a child’s early years, every little moment is important — and Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) and assistants know how to make those moments special. Whether they’re helping a toddler deal with big feelings or cheering on a preschooler to try something new, they always show kindness, patience, and care.
Through fun games and activities, they help kids learn to talk, read, count, explore, be creative, and grow stronger in body and mind. These early lessons help kids get ready for school and love learning.
One parent shared:
“Daycare is one of the best parts of our new life in Canada and Saskatoon. The staff helped Isaac grow and become more confident. Now he uses the potty, talks more, and loves speaking English. I feel safe knowing he is with them. Thank you!”
Here in Saskatoon, ECEs do more than care for children—they help families, too. When kids are doing well, parents feel supported and can go to work or school with peace of mind.
So on ECE Day—or any day this month—if you see an educator or assistant, take a moment to say thank you. Their care and support in a child’s early years can make a difference that lasts a lifetime.
