BrightPath Centre Review: Richmond (5275 Richmond Road SW)

05/29/2017

As our programs continue to grow, I find myself fielding more and more questions regarding child care and various child care options. It’s not always easy to find the ideal location, when it comes to putting your beloved children in the hands of someone else. Whether it’s a childcare centre, a daycare, nanny or day home you’ve got lots of options around the city and big decisions to make. So when I get the chance to tour facilities and check out options for local families, I always find it to be valuable and worthwhile for all of our families.

Last week, I got this opportunity to check out a brand new facility for BrightPath in Richmond. It’s a brand new building, still getting the final touches, so that it will be open in mid June 2017. There’s something to be said about new facilities, with new rooms, new equipment, new toys (that’s a big one – no nasty chewed up toys), everything brand spanking new.

The Richmond Centre has a capacity for 247, and there is still availability. Here’s some of the notable features of this brand new, state of the art facility:

* Security: In a world where security is of utmost importance to parents, I found it reassuring that they have a solid security system. Everyone who enters has to use a key fob, so if you don’t have one, you’re not getting in.

* Web Cam: Unlike other facilities that have web cams, Bright Path does not. What they do have is a Bright Path Connect. This is allows teachers to connect real time with parents through mobile application and email messaging. Updates, reports, reminders and photos are regularly posted. A great way to keep connected to what your child is doing, learning and engaging in.

* Curriculum: BrightPath subscribes to the Frog Street Curriculum . And Frog Street curriculum starts in the youngest room and goes to pre-kindergarten.

* Infant Room: 6 weeks to 12 months – This room is for the babies and only has space for 6 kids along with 2 educators. All natural woods and colours are used, everything is low to the ground and age appropriate for babies. Their focus is on holistic education and creative global citizens that have an appreciation for cultures as well as special needs.

* Infant Room: 12 – 18 months – Natural woods and colours are everywhere here in this room as well as in every room at BrightPath. This is done because it is more of a calming colour for children. Plus all the toys are very specifically chosen, so that they can encourage lots of open ended play. Even the doll houses don’t have any specific ‘furniture’ or items in the rooms, so that kids can see endless possibilities. This room allows 8 kids and has 2 educators.

* Toddler Room: 19-35 months – This room has a 1 to 6 ratio, 12 children with 2 educators. Again natural wood and colours (except for the cool sushi toys that are super fun to play with)! All programs offer the Frog Street curriculum in the morning and a blended program in the afternoons.

* Preschool Room: Ages 3 – 4.5 -The ratio is 1-8 with 16 kids and 2 educators. They have weekly themes that are always changing. The preschool students have a dedicated physical literacy program. And they do start offering technology at this level, as tablets are available but with a restricted time.

* Kindergarten: Ages 4.5 – Kindergarten: This is a 1-10 ratio with 20 maximum per group. This program includes care on all school closures, with meals, snacks and transportation included to select schools.

* Out of School Care: Grade 1 -12 years of age: 1-15 ratio, with 45 kids and 3 educators. Depending on where your children go to school, they do offer busing based on demand. There needs to be a minimum of 6 kids per school to offer a bus pick up option. This group also has the advantage of using the smart board technology (super cool feature).

* Extra Curricular Activites: Bonus for this centre, they do offer extra curricular activities, so instead of having to pick up your child and rush to another location, they can attend various additional activities right on site! Less driving and stress for you!

* Kitchen: Talk about impressive kitchen and meal planning! There are 2 regular chefs who work full time to provide the children with 80% of the child’s dietary needs through the various meals and snacks throughout the day. There’s a 5 week menu so lots of options and variety.

* Elevators are on site.

* Open House: This Tuesday May 30th, Wednesday May 31st and Thursday June 1st.

As a parent, I was impressed with the attention to details for everything they use in the room. Nothing is chosen just because. It all has a reason, a purpose and an objective. With 78 centres across Canada, their job is to focus on these details and I find comfort knowing that if my children were to go to the centre, they would be receiving quality education and care.

The centre is still undergoing last minute construction details, but they are holding open houses this upcoming week. So if you’re interested, head down, go on a tour and check it out. It doesn’t hurt to check out numerous facilities to compare them all and make a final decision.

For more information, head to their website: Bright Path – Richmond

BONUS OFFER:

Founding Families Grand Opening Promotion

Register and begin care during BrightPath Richmond’s opening month (June) to be eligible for our Founding Families discount. Receive $100 off your tuition for the first three months of care. That’s $300 in savings! Some conditions apply. Speak to staff at the centre for more details.