A woman reading a book to a group of children.

Early years programs


Macaulay Centres for Children offers a range of free early years programs for children ages 0 to 6 and their families. Many of these programs are delivered through our partnership with EarlyON Child and Family Centres around western Toronto.

Designed to encourage learning through play and delivered by experienced, knowledgeable staff, EarlyON programs are inclusive, equitable environments that welcome each and every family.

Helping your child thrive


For children ages 0 to 6

Programs delivered in person and virtually:

  • Help your child develop the social, communication and early literacy skills that promote success in school and in life.
  • Identify children with extra support needs so they can more fully participate in programs and access specialized services in the community.
  • Help parents and caregivers learn about their child’s development while meeting other parents/caregivers, sharing parenting experiences with professional staff and connecting to other community services.

Register for EarlyON


Step 1: You must register your child for EarlyON before joining a program. Registration is simple—fill out a short form, and we’ll guide you through the rest!

Step 2: Most EarlyON programs also require their own individual registration, which you can complete once registered for EarlyON.

Programs and schedule


Please note that some of the programs listed here may not be offered at the moment. See what’s happening at EarlyON this month.

For children ages 0 to 6 years

Parents and their babies can meet with other new parents in a relaxing, social environment. This program includes a variety of stimulating activities and informative chats.

For more information, email [email protected]

For children ages 0 to 6 years

Parents and caregivers learn about how to keep children safe, make the most out of parenthood and build secure attachments with their children. We also provide information on child development and referrals to other community supports.

Register via email at [email protected]

For children ages 0 to 6 years

English, Tagalog and other Filipino dialect–speaking families can enhance their knowledge about Filipino culture while building family support and connections with the Filipino community. Immerse your child in Filipino heritage, childhood games and traditions.

For more information, email [email protected]

For children ages 0 to 6 years

Children improve their understanding of math concepts and develop logical thinking skills through games and activities involving patterns, measurements and spatial senses.

For more information, email [email protected]

For children ages 1.5 to 6 years

This program gives parents strategies to support children who have speech and communication challenges. Some strategies include: how to modify communication with your child, listening and responding in a sensitive manner, and using body language, gestures, and visual aids to support language and communication.

Register via email at [email protected]

For children ages 0 to 6 years

In this fun, engaging program, children prepare simple, nutritious snacks. This program promotes healthy eating, boosts self-confidence and encourages family bonding.

For more information, email: [email protected]

For children ages 0 to 6 years

Make the Connection puts the attachment theory into seven fun and purposeful sessions. As they learn what children need to form secure attachments, parents and caregivers practise with their toddlers and reflect on their parenting role.

Register via email at [email protected]

For children ages 0 to 6

Parents, caregivers and their children socialize with others in an interactive learning environment. Children learn, explore, communicate and understand new concepts, expanding their knowledge through play-based and guided activities. This includes songs, rhymes and reading stories, along with gross and fine motor activities. Tagalog and Spanish offered at some locations.

For more information, email [email protected]

For children starting school in September of this year

For parents/caregivers and children starting school in September of this year, this program encourages the development of social skills, independence skills, communication skills and parental support skills.

Register via email at [email protected] or [email protected]

For children ages 4 to 6 years

This program promotes literacy, numeracy, science and discovery, and offers fun arts, drama and craft activities. Designed for children ages 4 to 6, the Socio/Emotional Program, was created to meet needs identified by our Parent Advisory Council. Pre-registration is required.

To register one parent/caregiver and an accompanying child, complete and submit this form. To register a second adult, complete and submit this form.

This program promotes healthy parent–child relationships, encourages positive behaviours and teaches new skills. It incorporates information and parenting techniques that are particularly useful for parents of children with extra support needs.

Register via email at [email protected]

For children ages 1 to 2.5 years

This program helps parents and caregivers support their toddlers’ early learning. Parents, caregivers and their children engage in sensory activities, crafts, stories, songs and more.

For more information, email [email protected]

Programs for Black families


We offer a number of programs at our Jane Street Hub location that are particularly welcoming for Black families. These EarlyON programs are funded by the EarlyON Innovation Grant: Reimagining Early Years Programming for Black Children and Families.

For more information, email [email protected]

EarlyON for French speakers


Le programme Enfance et Familles du Centre francophone de Toronto offre une large gamme de services gratuits et confidentiels aux enfants et à leurs parents. Pour plus d’information, suivez le lien : centrefranco.org/coin-on-y-va

EarlyON locations


Macaulay operates EarlyON Child and Family Centres in the northwest quadrant of the City of Toronto.