Inspiring Minds Early Learning Centre

10/14/2026

At Inspiring Minds we are very lucky to have the wonderful playgrounds we do; rich in space and natural wonders.

As the children settle into the fall they have become familiar with their new surroundings and can been seen exploring and investigating new things.

Outside we provide large loose parts, such as logs, crates, tires, branches, and wooden planks. Access to these types of materials are important for preschoolers because they encourage creativity, imagination, and child-directed play. Children can use these materials in many different ways, allowing them to create their own games, structures, and play environments.

Loose parts also support physical development by encouraging children to lift, carry, balance, push, and build. These activities strengthen gross-motor skills, coordination, and confidence. At the same time, children develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills as they figure out how to use and combine the materials.

Outdoor loose-part play also promotes social and emotional development. Children learn to communicate, cooperate, share, negotiate, and work together. With appropriate supervision, loose parts provide opportunities for children to take manageable risks and develop independence. Overall, large outdoor loose parts create rich, hands-on learning experiences that support children's physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and creative development.

10/12/2026

10/06/2026

Join us in welcoming Mikayla to the IM team! As one of our floaters, Mikayla will be working in all programs to support classrooms when educators are off. We’re so happy Mikayla is here! We’re looking forward to learning more about Mikayla with a few of our favourite get‑to‑know‑you questions.

IM: What is your favourite children's book?
Mikayla: Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

IM: What do you like to do to relax?
Mikayla: I like to spend time with family, read and watch TV.

IM: What actor would you choose to play you in a movie about your life?
Mikayla: Elle Fanning

IM: What is y our favourite quote?
Mikayla: "Keep your face always toward the sunshine and shadows will fall behind you." Walt Whitman

IM: What's a random fact about you?
Mikayla: I love hiking, camping, waterfall hunting and spending time with loved ones.

Welcome to IM, Mikayla!

10/05/2026

We have had such a busy and exciting month in our classroom! The children have been enjoying lots of pretend play, building and creating with different materials, exploring obstacle courses, and learning through play each day. It has been such a joy to watch everyone settle into the classroom, make new friends, and grow in confidence.

One of the most important parts of preschool is learning how to be part of a group and build positive relationships with others. Through everyday play and interactions, children are learning to:
*Share and take turns
*Communicate their thoughts, feelings, and needs
*Cooperate and work together
*Recognize feelings and develop empathy
*Solve conflicts in respectful and peaceful ways
*Build confidence and independence
*Develop a sense of belonging within our classroom community

These everyday experiences help children develop important social and emotional skills that they will continue to use throughout their lives — with friends, teachers, family members, and others.

We are so proud of the children and all the growth we have seen already! We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings. Here’s to a year filled with learning, laughter, friendships, and lots of wonderful adventures together!

10/02/2026

Our educators were painted during our “Paint the Teacher Night” last night. Thank you to all who joined us and created the master pieces!

10/02/2026

Tomorrow!

10/01/2026

Cheers to the Inspiring Minds Early Learning Centre team for another successful licensing visit today! Not only did we receive a fully compliant inspection, the licensing inspector commented on the respectful and reciprocal interactions and the open, positive atmosphere.

In true Wellesley spirit, we toasted with sparkling apple c***r from Wellesley Apple Products. Cheers!

09/30/2026

Today, we pause to honour and remember the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities. It is a day to reflect on Canada’s history, listen to Indigenous voices, and work together toward healing and reconciliation.

At our centre, we believe even our youngest learners can begin to explore these important ideas in gentle, age-appropriate ways. For children ages 0–6, conversations about truth and reconciliation can begin with:
- Talking about fairness, kindness, and belonging.
- Sharing stories that highlight Indigenous voices, traditions, and cultures.
- Creating space for children to ask questions and guiding them with honesty and care.

Families can introduce the topic by:
- Wearing orange and sharing the message that every child matters.
- Reading picture books by Indigenous authors and artists together
- Exploring nature and talking about the deep connections Indigenous Peoples have with the land.

Children’s Book Suggestions by Indigenous Authors/Artists:
- We All Count: A Book of Cree Numbers by Julie Flett
- Birdsong by Julie Flett
- You Hold Me Up by Monique Gray Smith, illustrated by Danielle Daniel
- My Heart Fills with Happiness by Monique Gray Smith, illustrated by Julie Flett
- When We Were Alone by David A. Robertson, illustrated by Julie Flett
- Still This Love Goes On (musical read aloud) Lyrics and song by Cree artist, Buffy Sainte-Marie. Illustrated by Cree-Metis artist, Julie Flett.
- I Sang You Down from the Stars by Tasha Spillett-Sumner

Let’s honour this day together with compassion, learning, and the commitment to raising children who understand respect, belonging, and the importance of every child’s story.

09/28/2026

As September rolls in our toddler room is officially buzzing with excitement, curiosity, and new beginnings! This time of year is so special as we focus on building warm connections and helping our little ones feel comfortable and confident in their space. We’re spending these early weeks getting to know each child's unique personality, favourite routines, and interests in our classroom.

Together we’re practicing key communication skills every day such as learning to express our feelings, use new words, share, and build those wonderful first friendships through play. Connecting with educators and other children builds our sense of belonging within our centre and community.

Our days are packed with active hands on exploration, both indoors and outdoors! We love getting outside to soak up the fresh air, explore, and discover all the changing sights and sounds of the season. Inside our classroom we’re constantly introducing new activities, reading in our cozy area, and fun sensory setups that spark curiosity and creativity. Watching everyone connect, try new things, and grow together has been so wonderful. We are so excited for all the learning, laughter, and milestones ahead this year for the toddler room!

“Everyday is an adventure when you’re learning side by side” - Fred Rogers

09/24/2026

Almost one month into the new school year and we’re being spoiled again. Thank you to another generous family for the bevvies from Resolute Smoothie & Espresso Bar — your kindness truly brightens our days and makes us feel appreciated. 💛