Our Six Key Components at Little Cubs Early Years Centre

“(Culture and language) is the foundation of both individual and collective identity and its erosion can adversely affect mental health and well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and even suicide.”

The culture and language component at Little Cubs Early Years Centre in Lake Cowichan allows our children to experience their cultures and learn their languages. Activities give children a sense of belonging and an identity as a First Nations person.

Education is a key social determinant of health and, especially in the early years, can have a major influence on the health and quality of an individual’s life.

The education component promotes life-long learning with activities that encourage a child’s readiness to learn. Activities also focus on the physical, spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and social development needs of children. Community members, including Elders, are involved in helping with early literacy activities, such as printing and recognizing sounds and words.

The health promotion component encourages children and families to have a healthy lifestyle. Programming promotes physical activities, such as playground activities and traditional games.

Staff promote self-care, such as helping children to brush their teeth, and encourage appropriate assessments for children (for example, vision and hearing testing). Programming also includes visits with health professionals such as nurses (for immunizations), dental hygienists, speech therapists and physicians. Parents and families are also supported with access to health professionals.

Nutrition is an important part of healthy living.

Good food can improve an individual’s health and poor or inadequate food can undermine health.

Good eating habits established early can lead to better health throughout life.

Programming offers nutritious snacks and meals and provides children with opportunities to participate in traditional food gathering activities. Nutritionists and other health professionals provide information on healthiest choices.

Social support is an important social determinant of health.

Quite simply, the support of family and community is critical in determining an individual’s health.

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The social support component informs parents and guardians about the resources, services, and health providers available to them to achieve a healthy and holistic lifestyle.

The parental and family involvement component recognizes and supports the role of parents and family as the primary teachers and caregivers of their children. Programming provides opportunities for participation in parent/guardian committees, monthly family dinners, children's field trips and other after hour activities. Outreach services and home visits support parental and family involvement by bringing programming into the home.