EarlyON
The Urban Indigenous EarlyON program is a new IFC program that opened its doors to the community in February of 2020. Funded by the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Social Services Administration Board (DSSMSSAB), the Urban Indigenous EarlyON is an Indigenous family early years program for families with children ages 0-6.
We provide programming that is rooted in Indigenous knowledge, language and culture to cultivate and support positive relationships between Indigenous parents/caregivers and their children in a wholistic, welcoming and warm environment.
All programming follows Ontario’s Pedagogy for the early years, ‘How Does Learning Happen?’ through an Indigenous worldview.
Programs and activities take place on the land as well as indoors for a wide variety of activities that all parents/caregivers and children will enjoy.
At the Urban Indigenous EarlyON we pride ourselves in providing a safer space for every person, regardless of culture, status, gender or sexual identity. All people are celebrated, respected and welcome.
Throughout the pandemic, programming has been made available virtually on our various social media platforms. Find us on Facebook at ‘Urban Indigenous EarlyON,’ on Instagram @urbandindigenousearlyon and TikTok @urbanindigenousearlyon.
Programming and service opportunities provided at the EarlyON include:
- Cultural Teachings
- Stories
- Songs
- Parenting Workshops
- Free Play
- Child Development
- Food Security
We have an awesome team of staff who work hard to bring only high quality, culture based family and children’s programming to you. If you would like more information please do not hesitate to contact one of us using the contact information below:
Ashley Gour, RECE Bear Clan, Acting Program Coordinator
earlyon@ssmifc.ca or ece@ssmifc.ca
705-256-5634 ext. 3204
705-989-4595
Angelica Gervais, Registered Early Childhood Educator
ece2@ssmifc.ca
