News
Happy Canada Day!
On Canada Day 2024, let's celebrate our people, diversity, and youth. Wherever you are, enjoy the festivities and celebrate what makes you proud!
Canadian Multiculturalism Day
On June 27, Canadian Multiculturalism Day honours the many cultural communities that help build a strong and vibrant Canadian society. It's an opportunity to celebrate the cultural diversity that enriches us collectively... have you thought about creating a local celebration or participating in activities in your community?
National Indigenous Peoples Day
Each year, on June 21st, Canadians celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day that celebrates and recognizes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures. It is observed on the 21st of June to recognize the summer solstice, the day of maximum daylight, and its importance to Indigenous Peoples.
Heatstroke Prevention Safety Tips
Did you know that heatstroke can be deadly and requires immediate medical attention? An average of 38 children die each year in hot cars, so it's important to be prepared and take action. This Heatstroke Prevention Safety Tips poster can help.
World Refugee Day
Each year on June 20 the world celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day is an opportunity to build empathy and understanding, and to recognize the resilience of refugee families everywhere.
Fun No-Equipment Outdoor Game Ideas
Here are some tried-and-true outdoor game ideas that don't require any equipment. The list includes traditional games, fun variations on old-time favourites, and some new activities. Whether you’re looking for outdoor games for a big group or just a few, this list is a great go-to guide for fun active outdoor games that you can set up on the spur of the moment, no gear or equipment necessary!
Cultural Humility Self-Reflection Tool
This cultural humility self-reflection tool has been designed to help Ontario school staff to explore, and then reflect upon, their individual cultural humility, but it's relevant to our work too! It prompts us to consider our skills, knowledge and self-awareness when supporting children and engaging with parents/caregivers and colleagues who don’t share our culture and identities. Reflecting deeply on our own personal values, beliefs and biases is an important step towards providing supporting and inclusive care for diverse families. When you enter the relationship with cultural humility, you can engage in more authentic interactions that promote better mental health and a sense of belonging for the children in our care.
Multicultural Principles for Early Childhood Leaders
The 2023 edition of Multicultural Principles for Early Childhood Leaders builds on growing research about how race, ethnicity, ability, gender, and socio-economic status influence young children’s learning. The resource is organized into three action categories: Explore, Nurture, and Grow. Each principle describes intercultural approaches that promote respect, understanding, and effective communication leading to meaningful and cooperative relationships - which can move us beyond the acknowledgement of diverse cultures to proactive practices!
No Backyard, No Problem… Families Can Bring the Outside In!
No backyard? No problem! If the only outdoor space families have access to is a balcony or concrete patio, they can still access nature and its healing powers by bringing it indoors through crafts, gardening, books, and online resources. Here's a list you can share with parents, full of fun and simple nature-themed ways for children to stay curious about the natural world indoors.
18 Ways to Have Fun with Loose Parts in CNC
In this 30-minute CNC Learning Moment session, CMAS consultant Tricia Kassotis joins us to talk about CNC Fun with Loose Parts. We encourage you to watch on your own, or as a team!