Welcome Letter from the Panda Cub House Educators & Pedagogical Leaders

Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s),

Thank you so much for your interest in Panda Cub House Childcare Centre! It is with great warmth and excitement that we welcome you to our waitlist community.

At Panda Cub House, we strive to provide more than just childcare — we foster an inclusive, respectful, and nurturing learning environment where every child is viewed as strong, capable, and full of potential. Our team is committed to providing high-quality care rooted in the FLIGHT: Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Framework, where children’s identities, family cultures, and unique experiences are valued and uplifted.

We are honored that you are considering us as a partner in your child’s early learning journey. Please know that joining our waitlist is the first step toward becoming a part of a vibrant, respectful, and compassionate community of learners.

As you prepare for potential enrolment, we want to be transparent and intentional in communicating that while we celebrate diversity and welcome all families, our current building layout and infrastructure present certain limitations. At this time, we may not be equipped to support children requiring specialized mobility aids, complex medical equipment, or intensive one-on-one support. This is not a reflection of your child’s worth or our values but rather an honest consideration of safety, accessibility, and the quality of care we can offer within our current facility. We are actively exploring future improvements to increase the inclusivity of our space with UDL (Universal Design for Learning) principles in mind; however, it's going to take time and a whole lot of monetary resources to upgrade our infrastructure and layout to accommodate such changes.

To help us get to know your family better, we invite you to complete the enclosed waitlist form. We also encourage you to share any information that may help us understand how to best support your child’s learning and development in alignment with our commitments to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA), and the values of trauma-informed practice and social-emotional learning frameworks like GRIT and ASAP.

We look forward to learning more about your child, and we appreciate your patience as we navigate space availability and family priorities. Should a spot become available, we will reach out to discuss next steps and offer a tour of our centre.

In the meantime, if you have any questions, would like to schedule a tour, or simply want to connect, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your child’s early learning journey matters deeply to us, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Please note: Our program spaces most commonly open up in July and September of each year, aligning with school transitions and summer graduation of older cohorts. While unexpected spots may occasionally arise, the majority of new enrollments are processed during those times.

With warmest regards,

Panda Cub House Family

Overview of Programs Offered

At Panda Cub House, we are proud to offer high-quality, play-based, and developmentally responsive programs that support the growth of the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Rooted in the FLIGHT: Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Framework, our programs nurture curiosity, celebrate individuality, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

We currently offer care and early education for children from 1 year old through Kindergarten at our main centre: Panda Cub House (offers grants). For school-age children in Grades 1 to 6, we provide continuity of care through our two dayhome locations in Brintnell and Miller (both locations = no grants & no subsidies).

🌱 Infant & Toddler Program (1–2 Years Old)
Our nurturing infant and toddler environment is designed to support early attachment, sensory exploration, and gross motor development. Children are introduced to language-rich interactions, cozy routines, and gentle transitions to group care with a strong educator-child connection.

Key Features:

• Low child-to-educator ratios
• Consistent routines for naps, meals, and diapering
• Sensory and motor-rich materials
• Communication with families via BrightWheel

🌼 Preschool & Junior Preschool Program (2.5–5 Years Old)
Our preschool programs focus on emergent learning, self-regulation, early literacy, and social-emotional development. We believe children learn best through play, meaningful relationships, and hands-on exploration.

Key Features:

• Flight-inspired learning experiences
• Dramatic play, art, STEM, and music areas
• Outdoor play and nature walks daily
• Kind and respectful educator guidance

🎒 Kindergarten Enrichment Program (5–6 Years Old)
This program is designed for children enrolled in half-day Kindergarten or who are Kindergarten-aged but not yet in Grade 1. We provide both structured learning opportunities and free play time to support Kindergarten readiness and continued growth.

Key Features:

• Focus on early math, science, and literacy
• Social skills building and problem solving
• Support for transitions to school routines

🏠 Out-of-School Care (Grades 1–6)
For families requiring extended care beyond Kindergarten, our Panda Cub House School Age program is available through two dayhome extensions:

• Brintnell Dayhome
• Miller Dayhome
• These cozy, home-based settings offer a consistent philosophy of care in line with our centre's values and expectations. Transportation options available only to and from Dr. Donald Massey School and Christ the King School.

Key Features:

• Homework support and creative activities
• Outdoor play and enrichment projects
• Flexible before and after-school care hours
• School break and summer care offered
  
• We are excited to support your child’s journey at every stage of their development. For more details on ratios, hours, or curriculum specifics for each program, please contact us directly or visit our website.

With care,
The Panda Cub House Team

Program Philosophy & Core Values

At Panda Cub House, we believe that every child is a unique, capable, and curious individual who thrives in a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment. Our role as early childhood educators is to walk alongside children as co-learners, co-researchers, and co-imaginers of possibilities.

Our philosophy is deeply grounded in Alberta’s FLIGHT: Early Learning and Care Framework, which guides us in creating responsive, relationship-rich environments that honour children’s voices, cultures, families, and experiences. We view early learning as a shared journey of discovery and joy, built on respectful relationships, meaningful interactions, and a strong sense of belonging.

✨ Our Core Values

🧡 Respect for All Individuals

• We honor the dignity, strengths, and rights of every child, family, and team member. We recognize and support each child’s identity, culture, and individual way of being in the world.

🌍 Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

• We actively strive to create an equitable, accessible, and anti-biased space where all children and families feel welcomed, seen, and celebrated. We embrace the diverse languages, cultures, traditions, and perspectives that enrich our learning community.

🏡 Safe, Supportive, and Caring Community

• We are committed to nurturing safe and emotionally secure environments where children feel loved, supported, and empowered to explore and take risks. Emotional regulation, empathy, and connection are central to our daily routines and educator practices.

📘 Lifelong Learning Disposition

• We foster a culture of curiosity, wonder, and reflection. We encourage children to ask questions, make discoveries, and lead their own learning journeys, laying the foundation for a lifetime of inquiry and joy in learning.

🌱 Empowered and Educated Staff

• Our educators are valued professionals who are continuously growing through reflective practice, professional learning, and collaboration. We believe that a strong and inspired team leads to high-quality care and teaching.

🎉 Joyful Learning and Play

• We take play seriously — because children do. Our environments are filled with laughter, stories, music, and joyful exploration. We believe in celebrating each moment of growth and connection.

Through intentional relationships, open communication with families, and developmentally responsive practices, Panda Cub House seeks to support the whole child — mind, body, and spirit. We are honored to walk alongside families in these most meaningful early years, planting the seeds of confidence, kindness, and resilience that will last a lifetime.

With heart,
The Panda Cub House Team

Curriculum Highlights

“Rooted in Play. Guided by Relationships. Inspired by Wonder.”

At Panda Cub House, our curriculum is not a rigid schedule of lessons, but a living, evolving approach to learning that reflects the interests, identities, and developmental needs of the children in our care.

Our program is guided by Alberta’s FLIGHT: Early Learning and Care Framework and Reggio Emilia Approach, which recognizes children as mighty learners and citizens. This means we view each child as creative, curious, and full of potential — and we design our environments, experiences, and educator practices to reflect that.

✨ What Makes Our Curriculum Unique?

🧠 Emergent, Play-Based Learning

• We follow an emergent curriculum, where learning experiences are inspired by the children’s interests, questions, and everyday encounters. Educators observe and co-construct learning through meaningful play that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

🌱 FLIGHT Framework Foundations

Our daily practice reflects the four core goals of the FLIGHT Framework:

• Well-Being
• Play and Playfulness
• Communication and Literacies
• Diversity and Social Responsibility
• Educators document learning through pedagogical narration, helping families see the rich learning happening in play.

🤝 Relationship-Centered Practice

• Children thrive in the context of secure, respectful relationships. We focus on responsive caregiving, co-regulation, and attachment-building, all while encouraging social responsibility and empathy.

🌍 Inclusive & Culturally Responsive Approaches

• We embed EDIA (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) principles into our everyday practice, celebrating languages, family traditions, and cultural practices. Children see themselves reflected in our materials, stories, and celebrations.

🎨 Invitations to Learn

• Our environments are thoughtfully prepared with “invitations to play,” where open-ended materials, loose parts, and natural elements inspire exploration. Areas may include:
  • Sensory and art exploration
  • Literacy-rich dramatic play
  • STEM provocations (science, technology, engineering, and math)
  • Outdoor nature-based learning
  • Music and movement experiences

📷 Pedagogical Documentation

• Through BrightWheel and learning displays, we share stories of children’s growth, thinking, and discoveries with families. Our educators reflect on this documentation to adapt and extend the learning.

🧩 Social-Emotional Foundations

• We incorporate emotional literacy, conflict resolution, and mindfulness practices. Inspired by frameworks like GRIT and trauma-informed approaches, we help children name their emotions and build resilience.

Our curriculum is ever-growing, just like the children in our care. At Panda Cub House, we don’t just prepare children for school — we prepare them for life with confidence, compassion, and curiosity.

With wonder,
The Panda Cub House Teaching Team

Parent Expectations & Community Agreement Summary

“Together, we grow a thriving learning community.”

At Panda Cub House, we believe that strong, respectful partnerships with families are the heart of early childhood education. We view parents and guardians as the child’s first and most important teachers, and we aim to work in collaboration with you to support your child’s growth and well-being.

This Parent Expectations and Community Agreement outlines the shared commitments we uphold to foster a safe, inclusive, and joyful environment for all.

👨‍👩‍👧 Our Commitment to Families

• To treat each family with dignity, compassion, and respect.
• To create a welcoming, inclusive environment that honors each child’s identity, culture, and abilities.
• To provide consistent communication about your child’s development and learning through BrightWheel, newsletters, and conferences.
• To maintain transparency and accountability in our policies, programming, and operations.
• To prioritize your child’s safety, emotional security, and learning needs in everything we do.

🧡 Parent Expectations

As a member of our Panda Cub House community, we ask families to:

✅ Communicate Openly and Respectfully

• Use BrightWheel or direct conversations to stay informed, ask questions, and share important updates about your child.
• Inform us of absences, illnesses, or changes in pickup routines promptly.

✅ Follow Centre Policies and Procedures

• Review and adhere to our policies on attendance, illness, behavior guidance, screen time, and health and safety (included in our Family Handbook).
• Arrive and depart on time, respecting staff schedules and classroom routines.

✅ Participate and Engage

• Join us for family events, parent-teacher conferences, and celebrations when possible.
• Share your culture, language, or talents with the children — we welcome your contributions!

✅ Support a Positive Community

• Treat educators, staff, and fellow families with kindness and mutual respect.
• Help us maintain a peaceful, inclusive environment by modeling positive behavior and language.

✅ Be Mindful of Diverse Needs

• Respect that our centre serves families from a variety of cultural, spiritual, and economic backgrounds.
• Understand that we may not be equipped to meet certain high-needs supports due to facility limitations, and we will always communicate openly and ethically in such cases.

🕊️ Community Agreement Statement
By enrolling at Panda Cub House, our families join a community built on trust, shared responsibility, and a commitment to nurturing the whole child. We agree to:

“Work together in respectful partnership, supporting one another with empathy, grace, and the shared goal of helping our children grow into compassionate, capable citizens.”

We thank you for being part of this journey. Your collaboration and care make all the difference.

With gratitude,
The Panda Cub House Team

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) For Families on the Waitlist

“Supporting you with answers as you prepare for your child’s early learning journey.”

1. How does the waitlist work?
Families are placed on our waitlist in the order their complete application is received. Priority is given to:

• Siblings of currently enrolled children
• Returning families
• Age group availability
• Readiness for group care based on screening and developmental information

We aim to match families to available spots based on age group, desired start date, and space compatibility.

2. When do spots usually become available?
The majority of openings occur in July (summer transitions) and September (school-year enrollment). Unexpected spots may arise throughout the year due to family relocations or withdrawals, but these are rare and unpredictable.

3. How will I know if a space opens for my child?
If a space opens that matches your child’s age group and schedule needs, our Director will contact you directly to:

• Offer the spot
• Clarify any remaining screening items
• Share next steps for registration and onboarding

Please ensure your contact details remain up to date while on the waitlist.

4. Can I schedule a tour before a space becomes available?
Yes! We welcome families to schedule a tour to get to know our centre and philosophy better. Tours are offered during non-peak hours to minimize disruption to children’s routines. Contact us to arrange your visit: Book A Tour with your Child: Tour Panda Cub House

5. Do you accommodate children with diverse learning or medical needs?
We are committed to inclusive, equitable care and follow Alberta’s FLIGHT framework. However, our current facility layout and staffing model may not support:

• Complex medical interventions
• Children requiring one-on-one full-time support
• Children who require specialized mobility devices in small spaces

We assess each application with sensitivity and will be honest and supportive if we believe alternate programs better suit a child’s needs.

6. Do I need to pay to be on the waitlist?
Currently, there is no fee to be placed on our waitlist. A registration fee will only be required once a spot is offered and accepted.

7. What age groups do you serve?
At our main centre, we serve children from 1 year old to Kindergarten. For children in Grade 1 to Grade 6, our out-of-school care program is offered through our two dayhomes in Brintnell and Miller.

8. Do you offer part-time or drop-in care?
We primarily offer full-time and consistent part-time care based on availability. Drop-in care is not guaranteed but may occasionally be offered to returning families if space allows.

9. What is included in your daily programming?
Our curriculum includes:

• Play-based, emergent learning
• Daily outdoor play
• Music, art, sensory exploration, STEM provocations
• Social-emotional learning and mindfulness practices
• Culturally responsive materials and inclusive stories

10. How can I improve my chances of getting a spot?
While space availability is beyond your control, staying in touch, completing all required documents, being flexible with your start date, and accepting part-time options (if offered) may increase your chances.

11. What happens if I decline a spot?
If you decline an offered space, you may remain on the waitlist for future availability. However, families who repeatedly decline may be moved lower on the priority list unless a valid reason is communicated.

12. How can I contact Panda Cub House with questions or updates?

📧 Email: pandacubcare@gmail.com
📞 Phone: (780) 475 - 0336
🌐 Website: pandacubhouse.com
📍 Address: 16203 55 Street NW Edmonton, AB T5Y 0G1

We thank you for considering Panda Cub House as your child’s early learning home. We are honored to be part of your journey and hope to welcome your family into our care community soon.

Warm regards,
The Panda Cub House Team

Statement of Belonging

“You belong here. All of you.”

At Panda Cub House, belonging is more than just being included — it’s about being seen, valued, and celebrated for exactly who you are. We recognize that each child, family, and educator brings a unique story, culture, identity, and way of being into our learning community, and we welcome all with open hearts and open minds.

🧡 Rooted in EDIA Principles

We are committed to building a community that actively practices:

• Equity, by recognizing and removing barriers to meaningful participation.
• Diversity, by honoring the wide range of cultural identities, languages, abilities, and family structures.
• Inclusion, by creating learning environments where everyone feels respected, accepted, and empowered.
• Accessibility, by continuously reflecting on how our physical and social spaces can be more welcoming to all children and families.
• We reflect these values not only in our programming and policies, but also in how we communicate, listen, and build trust with one another.

🌱 Guided by the FLIGHT Framework

As described in Alberta’s FLIGHT: Early Learning and Care Framework, children are mighty learners and citizens, deserving of spaces that reflect their rights to well-being, play, communication, and social responsibility. At Panda Cub House, this means we:

• Nurture children’s identities and family relationships.
• Co-create inclusive learning environments with children and their families.
• Use pedagogical documentation to reflect children’s voices, cultures, and competencies.
• Commit to anti-bias, anti-racist, and trauma-informed practices in our everyday work.
  

🌈 What Belonging Looks Like at Panda Cub House

• Children see their languages, skin tones, holidays, and family traditions reflected in books, toys, music, and classroom materials.
• Families are welcomed as co-partners in learning and care, with open communication and opportunities to contribute meaningfully.
• Educators engage in ongoing professional learning to deepen their understanding of equity, reconciliation, and inclusive pedagogy.
• Our centre actively works to create safety and trust for every child — emotionally, physically, and culturally.

🕊️ Our Promise
At Panda Cub House, every child has the right to feel safe, seen, heard, and loved. We do not expect children to adapt to our program — we adapt our program to meet the needs of our community. We strive to ensure that every voice matters, and that every child knows:

“This place was made with you in mind. You belong here.”

With gratitude,
The Panda Cub House Team

Tours

Tours are usually accommodated at least 1-2 months before enrollment commences. For example: if your child starts childcare in September, we can do the tours either July or August.

Book A Tour

Tour Availabilities

Days: Monday to Friday

Times: 9:00AM to 11:00AM or 3:00PM to 6:00PM

Duration: 30 minutes each tour

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre Waitlist Agreement

Thank you for your interest in Panda Cub House! Our waitlist helps us ensure that every child has the opportunity to join our daycare in a fair and organized manner. Please read the following agreement and terms carefully before submitting your waitlist application.

Waitlist Agreement

By placing your child on the Panda Cub House waitlist, you agree to the following:

1. Acknowledgment of Waitlist Position
Being on the waitlist does not guarantee a spot in the daycare. We prioritize placement based on availability, program suitability, and the date of waitlist application.

2. Accuracy of Information
You agree to provide accurate and complete information. Any changes in your child’s needs, contact details, or other pertinent information should be promptly communicated to Panda Cub House.

3. Response Time
If a spot becomes available, you will be notified via phone or email. You agree to respond within 48 hours to confirm your acceptance of the spot. Failure to respond may result in your child being moved to the end of the waitlist.

4. Waitlist Renewal
To keep our waitlist current, Panda Cub House may reach out periodically to confirm your ongoing interest. If we do not receive a response within the designated time, your child may be removed from the waitlist.

5. Changes to Waitlist Policy
Panda Cub House reserves the right to update or amend waitlist policies and procedures as needed. You will be notified of any significant changes that affect your waitlist position or application.

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre Waitlist Terms

Waitlist Terms

1. Enrollment Priority
Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with consideration given to siblings of enrolled children, children of staff, and those seeking full-time care.

2. Program Availability
Enrollment depends on space availability in the age-appropriate program. If your child reaches an age that necessitates a different program while on the waitlist, they may be repositioned based on the availability of that age group.

3. Special Requirements
We aim to provide inclusive care to all children. If your child has specific medical, developmental, or behavioral needs, please notify us at the time of application to ensure we can accommodate them properly.

4. Fee Payment Policy
Upon receiving an offer of enrollment, you will be required to complete registration and pay all necessary fees, including a deposit, within the specified time to secure your child’s spot. (1) one-time payment, non-refundable $100 registration fee. (2) one-time payment, refundable $150 deposit - this will be refunded to you IF & WHEN you give us 1 month's notice BEFORE your child's last day. SOURCE: https://www.pandacubhouse.com/ Payment is sent via Interac E-Transfer to pandacubcare@gmail.com

5. Contacting the Waitlist Coordinator
For inquiries about your waitlist status or any changes in your situation, please reach out to the Director at (780) 475 - 0336 or pandacubcare@gmail.com.

Tips for Preparing Your Child for a Transition

“Big changes feel better with little steps.”

Starting at a new childcare centre is a meaningful milestone for both children and their families. Whether your child is entering care for the first time or moving into a new room or age group, transitions can bring a mix of excitement, uncertainty, and big emotions.

At Panda Cub House, we walk alongside families and children to make transitions as smooth, safe, and joyful as possible. Here are some gentle, child-centered tips to help prepare for the journey ahead.

🌱 1. Talk About What to Expect
Use simple, positive language to help your child understand where they are going and why.

“You’ll be going to a place called Panda Cub House where you’ll make new friends and play every day.”
Read books or tell stories about going to daycare or meeting new teachers.

🧸 2. Visit the Centre Together
If possible, attend an orientation visit or schedule a tour so your child can:

• See the play spaces and classrooms
• Meet their educators and peers
• Get comfortable with the environment
• Familiar faces and places help reduce first-day anxiety.

🕰️ 3. Adjust Routines Ahead of Time
Start aligning your home schedule with the daycare routine at least a week or two in advance.

• Wake-up, meal, and nap times can gradually shift to match the centre’s daily rhythm.
• Practice quick goodbyes to build confidence and security during drop-off.

🧡 4. Validate Emotions & Offer Reassurance
It’s okay if your child feels nervous, clingy, or even excited!

• Let them know it’s normal to feel all kinds of emotions when something new is starting.
• Try: “I’ll miss you too, but I know you’ll have a great time. I’ll be back to pick you up right after playtime.”

🎒 5. Pack a Comfort Item
If your child has a special blanket, stuffy, or photo, bring it along during the first few days or weeks.

Transitional objects help bridge the gap between home and childcare and provide a sense of familiarity during the day.

📷 6. Stay Connected
We use BrightWheel to share daily updates, photos, and messages so you can stay informed and connected with your child’s experience.

• Seeing what your child is doing during the day helps build trust and open conversation at home.

7. Be Gentle With Yourself, Too
Transitions affect the whole family. Give yourself grace as you navigate drop-offs, paperwork, and emotions. We’re here to support both you and your child.

🕊️ Remember: Transitions Take Time
Each child adjusts at their own pace. It may take days, weeks, or even longer for your child to feel fully settled — and that’s okay. Our educators use responsive, attachment-based practices to nurture a sense of safety and belonging throughout this process.

• We’re honored to be part of your child’s next chapter.
• Together, we’ll make this a positive, empowering experience for your whole family.

With care,
The Panda Cub House Team

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre Contact Information for Tours & Follow-Ups

“Let’s stay connected—your journey with us begins here.”

We are so excited that you’re considering Panda Cub House for your child’s early learning journey! Whether you have questions about our programs, want to book a tour, or would like an update on your waitlist status, we’re here to help.

📞 Main Contact Information

✉️ Email: pandacubcare@gmail.com
📞 Phone: (780) 475 - 0336
🕒 Hours: Monday to Friday | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

🏫 Centre Address
Panda Cub House Childcare Centre
16203 55 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5Y 0G1
(Located in the Hollick Kenyon Neighbourhood)

📅 Want to Book a Tour?
We welcome prospective families to visit and experience our nurturing environment first-hand: Book A Tour At Panda Cub House

🖥️ Visit: pandacubhouse.com

• Tours are offered during mid-morning or late-afternoon hours to minimize disruption to children’s routines.

📝 Waitlist & Registration Follow-Up
If your family’s circumstances change, or you’d like to update your child’s age, start date, or care needs, please contact us directly so we can update your profile in our system.

We appreciate your patience as we manage our waitlist with care and intention.

📷 Instagram: instagram.com/pandacubhouse
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/PandaCubHouse

We look forward to welcoming your family into our Panda Cub House community! If you have any questions, big or small, don’t hesitate to reach out.

With warmth and gratitude,
The Panda Cub House Team